Al-Shawali Sparks Controversy: Mentioning Messi in Ronaldo's Matches Happens Spontaneously

Tunisian sports commentator Issam Al-Shawali, one of the prominent voices of the "beIN Sports" network, responded to the repeated criticisms from the fans of Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo regarding what they consider to be his "bias" towards his Argentine rival Lionel Messi.

During his live appearance, Al-Shawali sarcastically said: "I mean, did Messi send me a message asking me to mention him in the matches? Is this reasonable, for God's sake?" He added with a smile: "And because Messi is my brother-in-law!" in a sarcastic reference to the ongoing debate about his football inclinations.

The Tunisian commentator confirmed that he is not affected by what is written on social media, saying: "I do not read comments on social media and no words shake me, and it is impossible for me to enter the commentary booth while holding my phone."

He added that mentioning Messi's name in Ronaldo's matches happens completely spontaneously without intention, emphasizing: "I comment on what I see fit within the match, and I do not care what the world says."