In a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand, the Georgian star revealed the two players who inspired him and shaped both his style of play and approach to his professional career. Those players are Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.

“Cristiano was my idol. I would watch him everywhere,” Kvaratskhelia told Ferdinand. “I think the main thing for me was the type of professional he has always been. Everyone knows he’s one of the greatest players in soccer history, but the way he lives his life—that’s what I took from him and learned from”.

When discussing Ronaldinho, Kvaratskhelia focused on the Brazilian’s mesmerizing style of play. “As a kid, I was addicted to watching Ronaldinho’s videos. He was incredible, and I loved watching him,” he admitted. “Sometimes, I even try to replicate the things he did. Every now and then, I pull it off”.

Kvaratskhelia’s admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo

Kvaratskhelia has never been shy about his deep respect for the former Real Madrid star. Following Georgia’s 2-0 victory over Portugal in the UEFA Euro 2024 group stage, the PSG forward shared a memorable moment he had with Ronaldo.

“Before the match, Cristiano came over and wished me luck; I never imagined he’d come to talk to me,” Kvaratskhelia revealed during the post-match press conference.

“He’s a great player and an even greater person,” he continued. “That’s why he’s such a big personality on and off the field. I have so much respect for him—he’s one of the best players in the world”.

The exchange left a lasting impression on Kvaratskhelia. “When someone like him comes to talk to you before a game, it means something. It helped us believe we could achieve something big today. We’re incredibly proud to have beaten such a strong team,” he added.

According to Fabrizio Romano via his LiveHereWeGo Instagram, if Ansu Fati leaves this summer, Yamal is in line to take the iconic number. “Revealed: Lamine Yamal getting the 10 jersey number next season is possible,” Romano reported, citing Diario Sport. “This is a concrete scenario with Ansu likely to leave in the summer.”

While many fans expected the number to go to a playmaker like Pedri or a seasoned performer like Dani Olmo, others believed Raphinha—currently enjoying a career-best season and even receiving Ballon d’Or buzz—was the logical heir. The Brazilian winger has shown leadership and resilience throughout the campaign, attributes often associated with those who wear the No. 10.

Still, some see Yamal as better suited to the No. 7 or 11—numbers traditionally reserved for dynamic, flashy attackers with flair and creativity, much like Neymar in his prime. His style of soccer play already evokes memories of the Brazilian superstar.

Ronaldinho endorses Yamal’s talent

Support from club legends also carries weight in such decisions, and few voices are more iconic than Ronaldinho’s. The Brazilian great recently praised Yamal’s potential while offering a word of caution.

“He’s a precocious talent. I love watching him because of his creativity,” Ronaldinho told L’Équipe. “But he needs to prove over time that he’s doing the right things.” Still, the Barça legend didn’t hold back in his expectations: “He’ll be a superstar. The next Ballon d’Or, for sure.” Yamal’s stock continues to rise after winning the 2024 Young Player of the Season award, further cementing his case to wear the No. 10.

Flick’s stance on Ansu Fati’s future

Despite speculation about his departure, Ansu Fati is still part of Barcelona’s plans—for now. Head coach Hansi Flick recently addressed the forward’s situation and praised his efforts in training.

“We’ll see,” Flick said in a press conference. “We have to consider the entire team and assess how everyone is performing, both on the pitch and the bench. I can’t guarantee minutes, but based on his recent training, he’s showing improvement.” As Barça eyes a new era, the symbolic passing of the No. 10 shirt could soon mark a changing of the guard—from Messi to Yamal.

In an interview with L’Équipe, Ronaldinho identified a player he believes is the best in the world today and whose style reminds him of his own playing days. That player is none other than PSG’s standout forward, Ousmane Dembélé.

“I don’t like comparing myself to anyone, but I watch a lot of the teams I played for, and Ousmane Dembélé, at PSG, I like him a lot,” said Ronaldinho, who made 77 appearances for the French club between 2003 and 2008. “He has a Brazilian style, he’s unpredictable, inventive, and provocative. Sometimes he’s indecipherable, and on top of that, he scores a lot of goals,” he added.

“He’s breaking out in a different role than he had at PSG last year or at Barcelona,” Ronaldinho noted, emphasizing how Dembélé has stepped out of the shadows of stars like Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe to become PSG’s leading figure.

Dembélé’s career-best season

PSG recently clinched another Ligue 1 title with eight matches to spare, allowing the team to focus entirely on their Champions League quarterfinal clash against Aston Villa. A significant part of PSG’s success this season has been due to Ousmane Dembélé’s exceptional form.

The French winger has racked up 21 goals and six assists in 26 Ligue 1 matches, alongside seven goals and one assist in the Champions League. He’s added three goals and an assist in the Coupe de France and another goal in the Trophée des Champions. Altogether, Dembélé has contributed directly to 40 goals (32G/8A) in 40 matches this season—the best output of his career.

Ronaldinho predicts Lamine Yamal as the next Ballon d’Or winner

In the same interview, Ronaldinho heaped praise on 17-year-old Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal. The young Spaniard has been a revelation for the Catalan club, tallying 13 goals and 19 assists in 42 appearances across La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League—competitions where Barcelona remains a top contender.

“He’s an early talent. I also love watching him for his ability to invent,” Ronaldinho said. “He needs to confirm over time that he’s doing good work. He’ll be a huge star. The next Ballon d’Or winner, for sure,” added the Brazilian, who claimed the prestigious award himself in 2005.

According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, Neymar opened up about his decision in an interview with Podpah. “Real Madrid’s offer was a blank check. They told me I could have whatever I wanted… but I wanted Barça with my heart,” Neymar said.

“I would have made three times more money at Real Madrid. Florentino [Pérez] always liked me. But Ronaldinho played at Barcelona, and I wanted to play with Messi.” Neymar made it clear that Ronaldinho’s legacy at Barcelona was a major influence in his decision, further solidifying the club’s reputation as a destination for Brazilian icons.

Neymar and Ronaldinho’s connection

Though Neymar and Ronaldinho never played together at Barcelona, they shared the field with the Brazilian national team, showcasing the essence of jogo bonito. Their time together may have been brief, but it produced unforgettable moments.

But what if Neymar had chosen Real Madrid instead? Would he have had a more successful career? Would he have won the Ballon d’Or? How many Champions League titles would he have claimed? Those are questions that will forever remain unanswered. What’s certain is that his time at Barcelona created some of the most memorable moments in modern soccer history.

Neymar helped Messi improve his penalty kicks

One of the most surprising stories Neymar shared in his interview was about a lesson he once gave Lionel Messi—the art of taking penalties.

“I helped Messi take penalties! We were in training, and he asked me, ‘How do you take penalties like that?’” Neymar revealed. “I was like, ‘Are you crazy? You’re Messi. If I can do it, you can too.’ Then I taught him, and he trained,” Neymar added.

This advice proved invaluable, as Messi later showcased improved composure from the spot—most notably during Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar.

Neymar and Messi: a legendary partnership at Barcelona

Neymar and Messi formed one of the most electrifying duos in soccer history. Alongside Luis Suárez, they created the legendary MSN trio, which dominated Spanish and European soccer from 2013 to 2017.

Their chemistry on the pitch was instant. While Messi remained Barcelona’s undisputed leader, Neymar brought flair, dribbling, and creativity that perfectly complemented the Argentine’s genius. Their near-telepathic understanding produced some of the most breathtaking attacking sequences soccer has ever seen.

One of their defining moments came in the 2014-15 Champions League campaign, where both played pivotal roles in securing a historic treble. Neymar scored in the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final, while Messi’s leadership and brilliance guided Barça to European glory.

Together, they won numerous trophies, including a Champions League title, a FIFA Club World Cup, and two La Liga championships, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy.

During the session shared by ge.globo on Instagram, Romario made bold declarations when asked to choose between himself and other Ballon d’Or winners: “Romário or George Weah: Romário. Romário or Ronaldo: tie. Romário or Zidane: Romário. Romário or Rivaldo: Romário. Romário or Figo: Romário. Romário or Ronaldinho: Romário. Romário or Cannavaro: Romário. Romário or Kaká: Romário. Romário or Cristiano Ronaldo: Romário. Romário or Lionel Messi: tie. Romário or Modric: Romário. Romário or Lewandowski: Romário. Romário or Rodri: Romário.”

The Brazilian emphasized the significance of the Ballon d’Or, calling it “the most important award a player can win.” He fondly recalled his victory in 1994, when he edged out Hristo Stoichkov and Roberto Baggio for the title after a stellar year that included a FIFA World Cup win with Brazil.

Romário’s legacy: A soccer Icon

Romario remains one of the greatest legends in Brazilian soccer history. Born in 1966, the striker was celebrated for his lethal finishing, tight-space dribbling, and remarkable composure in front of goal. His crowning achievement came in the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where he scored five goals and played a crucial role in leading Brazil to its first World Cup title in 24 years. His dazzling performances earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player and later the FIFA World Player of the Year award.

At the club level, Romario shined for top teams like PSV Eindhoven, FC Barcelona, Flamengo, and Vasco da Gama. His most memorable European spell came at Barcelona under Johan Cruyff, where he netted 30 goals in 33 LaLiga matches during the 1993-94 season, leading the team to a league title. One of his iconic moments was a hat-trick in Barcelona’s famous 5-0 demolition of Real Madrid at the Camp Nou. Across his career, Romário claimed to have scored over 1,000 career goals—a rare feat that cements his place among soccer’s elite scorers.

How does Romário compare to modern legends?

Comparing Romario to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi is challenging due to differences in eras and playing styles. While Ronaldo and Messi have dominated modern soccer through physicality, longevity, and consistency, Romário relied on an instinctive goal-scoring ability, superb technique, and supreme confidence to become one of the deadliest strikers in history.

Although Romario did not have the same extended European tenure as Ronaldo or Messi, his pivotal role in Brazil’s 1994 World Cup victory and his clinical finishing earned him a revered status in football history. For many, he remains the quintessential No. 9—arguably the most clinical forward of his generation.

Ronaldinho recently attended a Brooklyn Nets game and took part in a TikTok challenge where he was asked to stay silent until the name of the player he considers the greatest of all time was mentioned. As names like Zinedine Zidane, Neymar, Ronaldo, and Diego Maradona were listed, Ronaldinho remained quiet. However, when he heard the name Pele, he confidently affirmed that the Brazilian legend is the greatest.

However, the Brazilian had stated in 2022 in an interview for Eleven Sports TV that choosing Messi as the best of all time is difficult: “If Messi is the best of all? It’s difficult because there are so many players. I don’t like to compare. There’s Pele, Maradona… Each one was the best in his era…I can’t say Messi is the best in history, but I can say he is the best in his time.”

Ronaldinho does not aim to diminish the legacies of Maradona, Messi, or Cristiano Ronaldo, acknowledging the unique talent each brought to their era. However, his recent statements on TikTok highlight the importance of his roots, as the Brazilian legend declared that Pele is, in his view, the greatest player of all time.

Ronaldinho stands out as one of the most important players in FC Barcelona’s recent history

When Ronaldinho joined FC Barcelona in the 2003/04 season, the club was far from being the dominant force it is today. Barcelona had finished sixth in LaLiga the previous season and had not won the league in five years. However, the Brazilian’s arrival, coupled with Dutchman Frank Rijkaard taking over as head coach, sparked a transformation.

The team finished second in Ronaldinho’s debut season before dominating LaLiga with back-to-back league titles in his second and third campaigns. His transformative impact on the club was undeniable, earning him the FIFA World Player of the Year award twice (2004 and 2005) and the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 2005.

Ronaldinho’s presence revitalized the team, instilling a winning mentality and a refusal to settle for mediocrity. As a mentor, he played alongside a young Lionel Messi, offering guidance and support. Messi would later take up the mantle as the team’s leader, dominating world soccer for decades.

“The first thing that comes to mind is all the beautiful memories from my time at the best club in the world,” Messi told Mundo Deportivo. Sending a heartfelt message to the fans, he added: “I miss them a lot. Hopefully, we’ll see each other again soon, and they can continue to feel proud of being part of the best club in the world.”

Over 17 record-breaking seasons, Messi led Barcelona to unprecedented heights. Reflecting on those years, the Argentine shared the impact two individuals had on his career.

“I think there are two people who influenced me the most for different reasons. Pep [Guardiola], because he was my coach for so many years, and together we achieved incredible things we’d never have imagined. And Ronaldinho, because of how he welcomed me, helped me, and supported me in my early days with the first team,” Messi said of the legendary coach and Brazilian superstar.

Messi praises former teammates

During his Barcelona years, Messi played alongside countless stars, but he chose to single out some of his teammates from Pep Guardiola’s dominant era in European soccer.

“I also have great memories of Andrés [Iniesta] and Xavi as teammates, as well as the three guys I play with here in Miami—Busquets, Alba, and Suárez—who are also my close friends,” Messi noted. “And of course, a special mention for Tito Vilanova, who we all miss dearly.”

Messi’s record-breaking legacy at Barcelona

Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Barcelona’s history, Messi holds the title of the club’s all-time leading scorer and is the foreign player with the most appearances for the team.

During his remarkable career with Barcelona, Messi achieved it all. From 2004 to 2021, he played 17 seasons, appearing in 837 matches, scoring 709 goals, and securing an astonishing 41 trophies.

Real Madrid officially signed Endrick last summer. Endrick, with an imposing sole and muscles that challenge the new season’s shirt, presented himself at the 15 European Cups with the number 16 shirt. This number, worn by other players in transition, could be a harbinger of great achievements for Endrick in his first year as a Real Madrid player.

Endrick is no stranger to high expectations. Acclaimed by more than 30,000 people at its presentation, it is under the magnifying glass of fans and the press. However, President Florentino Perez has asked for patience for the young striker. Unlike Vinicius or Rodrygo, Endrick should not carry the same pressure from the start.

Cristiano over Messi? Endrick and his response to comparisons between great players

As for comparisons, Endrick has been asked in a recent interview about players such as Neymar, Bellingham, Ronaldinho, Vinicius, Messi, and Cristiano. His answer was blunt: “Neymar or Bellingham? Bellingham. Ronaldinho or Vinícius? Vinicius. Messi or Cristiano? Cristiano,” Endrick replied to each question. These choices reflect his vision and preferences, but only time will tell if Endrick can follow in the footsteps of the big names he mentioned.

Endrick is a promising bet for Real Madrid. His talent and imposing physique make him a player to watch, and his debut at the Bernabeu will be an exciting moment for all white fans.

[Watch Kaka Legends vs Ronaldinho Legends live for FREE in the USA on Fubo]

It’s the perfect opportunity to witness your favorite stars lace up their boots once again and grace the pitch, reminiscent of their performances from decades ago when they mesmerized soccer fans with their immense talent.

Two Brazilian players, both world champions with their country in 2002, two timeless legends—Ronaldinho and Kaka—will serve as captains of their respective legendary teams in what is undoubtedly a duel no soccer fan should miss.

When will the Kaka Legends vs Ronaldinho Legends match be played?

The Kaka Legends vs Ronaldinho Legends in a 2024 international friendly match is scheduled for this Sunday, June 16, at 6:00 PM (ET).

Kaka Legends vs Ronaldinho Legends: Time by State in the USA

ET: 6:00 PM
CT: 5:00 PM
MT: 4:00 PM
PT: 3:00 PM

How to watch Kaka Legends vs Ronaldinho Legends in the USA

In the United States, the friendly game between Kaka Legends and Ronaldinho Legends can be seen through Fubo (free trial). Other options: Fanatiz USA, beIN SPORTS.

“Here it is guys, For me, it’s over. This is a sad moment for those who love Brazilian football. It’s hard to muster the enthusiasm to watch the games. This is perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years, lacking respected leaders, mostly just average players.”

Even with Ronaldinho’s furious statement, Brazil are still one of the favorite teams to lift the trophy with a roster that includes names like Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, Endrick, Casemiro and Marquinhos. They will be in Group D of the tournament with Paraguay, Colombia and Costa Rica.

However, their biggest challenge could be outside of that sector when they face other contenders such as Uruguay and, of course, defending champions Argentina led by Lionel Messi.

Ronaldinho just had enough of Brazil’s national team

In a surprising turn of events, Ronaldinho acknowldeged that he has given up on the Brazilian squad. The legend blames the players for what could happen in Copa America 2024.

“I’ve been following football since I was a kid, long before I thought about becoming a player, and I’ve never seen a situation this bad. There’s a lack of love for the shirt, a lack of determination and most importantly: lack of football. I repeat. Our performance has been one of the worst things I’ve ever seen. It’s shameful. Therefore, I declare here my abandonment. I won’t watch any games of Copa América and won’t celebrate any victories either.”

Brazilian players answer Ronaldinho

As expected, Ronaldinho’s statement shocked national media and, just a few hours after the message was published on Instagram, Raphinha was the first player to respond.

“Ronaldinho’s statement? I don’t know if that was an adv or not but…few days ago, I’m told he asked Vini Jr for tickets to come see our games (laughs). In any case, I was surprised and I don’t agree with his statement.”

Alves will serve four and a half years in prison for his actions and must pay the victim $162,990. “The sentence considers that it has been proven that the victim did not consent, and that there is evidence, in addition to the testimony of the plaintiff, to consider the rape proven,” the court said in a statement.

Prosecutors were seeking a nine-year prison sentence, but the court decided on four and a half years. Aside from the fine and his sentence, Alves will be on five-years’ probation upon release and will also have a nine and a half year restraining order from the victim. Alves attorney will appeal the decision as the Brazilian has maintained the sex was consensual.

Other soccer stars who went to prison

Ronaldinho (Brazil): Briefly detained in Paraguay in 2020 for using a fake passport.

Bruno Fernandes das Dores de Souza (Brazil): Sentenced to 22 years in jail in 2013 for the murder of his ex-girlfriend.

Joey Barton: The former English midfielder was sentenced to six months in jail in 2008 for common assault and affray.

Lee Hughes: The former English striker was sentenced to six years in jail in 2004 for causing death by dangerous driving.

Cristiano Doni (Italy): The former Italian footballer was sentenced to three and a half years in prison in 2012 for involvement in a match-fixing scandal known as “Calcioscommesse.”

Jonathan Fabbro: The Argentine footballer was sentenced to 14 years in prison in Paraguay in 2021 for sexual abuse of his underage goddaughter.

Rene Higuita: The former Colombian goalkeeper was imprisoned in 1993 for profiting from a kidnapping. He served seven months.