With 12 goals in La Liga this term already, Messi's flying start to 2017/18 is similar to that of his 2011/12 campaign, in which he set the record for the most goals in one season with 50.
In contrast, only Ronaldo's first seasons at Manchester United can reflect such a poor start to a campaign for the 32-year-old.
At Real Madrid, however, they highlight the fact that their star man was suspended for four league matches and still has the second most attempts on goal in La Liga (40), behind Messi (64).
Ronaldo also has better statistics in the Champions League. He has scored five times compared to Messi’s three in Europe's elite competition.
Statistics, statistics, statistics... Messi or Ronaldo... Will this question ever have an answer?