Cristiano or Messi? Buffon responds

"I have faced them on numerous occasions and both are very different," Buffon replied.

"Messi is, perhaps, something more complete: he starts the plays from further back and has more technical qualities and more vision of the game. He is the game's creator and finisher".

Turning his attention to Ronaldo, the legendary shotstopper continued: "Cristiano, especially in recent years, has specialised more in being a "killer" in the area. He managers his energy better and as soon as he picks up the ball in the box, he doesn't miss the target".

Buffon concluded: "What is clear is that both are very scary".

The veteran keeper was speaking ahead of Italy's friendly against Argentina at the Etihad on Friday, after deciding to reverse his international retirement and rejoin the national side, who also face England four days later.