Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo

There can be few doubts this season that the continent's, and indeed the world's, best two teams have reached the final to produce what looks on paper to be the most mouth-watering final in years.

And as a bonus, the two players widely regarded as the greatest talents currently on show in world football will stand opposite each other.

United's Cristiano Ronaldo is officially top dog, having won both the world player of the year crown and the Ballon d'Or in 2008, benefiting no doubt from his team's sensational run to Champions League, Premier League and Club World Cup glory.