Cristiano Ronaldo once again stirred global debate after declaring that he considers himself the greatest player in history, even ahead of Lionel Messi. The former Real Madrid star continues to find the net regularly for Al Nassr, but Ronaldo Nazario responded to those remarks and offered a more nuanced take, giving credit to the Portuguese forward but reserving greater praise for the Inter Miami and Argentina captain.

Nazario, a two-time World Cup champion and one of the most respected voices in the sport, shared his thoughts during an interview with ESPN. “Honestly, I don’t like to get into those discussions… I think some people have very high self-esteem,” Nazario said. “I prefer when people talk about my performances, what I did, what I was, instead of me talking about myself. But Cristiano Ronaldo has a fantastic story, he has conquered great things.”

The Brazilian icon went on to praise Ronaldo’s achievements while making his stance clear. “He scored goals in every way possible, even after changing positions,” Nazario added. “That’s not easy to do — he’s definitely among the best players in history. But the best? I don’t agree. I respect his opinion, but I’d place him in the top 10.” Nazario’s comments added fuel to an already fiery debate, though for many around the world, Lionel Messi remains the definitive answer.

What did Cristiano Ronaldo say about the World Cup?

Cristiano Ronaldo recently spoke with one of the journalists closest to him, Piers Morgan, in another headline-grabbing interview. As expected, the Portuguese star sparked controversy with his comments about the World Cup’s significance in determining the greatest player of all time.

“If you ask me if it’s a dream to win the World Cup — no, it’s not a dream,” Ronaldo told Morgan. “Define what? Define if I’m one of the best in history just because of a tournament of six or seven games? Do you think that’s fair? It’s not. How many World Cups did Argentina win before Messi? Two? It’s normal — countries used to winning big tournaments. I’m honest — for me, it doesn’t change how I see things or how I see soccer.”

Cristiano on being better than Messi

“Is Messi better than me? I don’t agree. I don’t want to be humble,” Ronaldo said in the same interview with Morgan. His statement echoed comments he had made months earlier to Spanish journalist Edu Aguirre.

“I think I’m the most complete player ever. That’s my opinion. Everyone has their preferences, but I do everything — I’m strong, fast, good with both feet, I head the ball well, I take free kicks, I can play anywhere. Some prefer Messi, Pele, or Maradona, and I respect that, but saying Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t complete is false. I’m the most complete. I’ve never seen a player like me.”

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ibrahimovic explained why he chose those three names, backing his choices with thoughtful arguments. “In my opinion, Ronaldo ‘The Phenomenon’ Nazario — he was soccer. He’s the kind of player you want to imitate,” said Zlatan, referring to the Brazilian icon as his biggest inspiration.

“I’ll give the second position to Maradona. For me, he was a real one — he did everything with his heart, with his emotions,” Ibrahimovic added, placing the Argentine legend second while emphasizing the qualities he admires most.

“For the third, I’m going to say Messi. He’s won… I’m not sure there’s anything left for him to win,” Zlatan said, putting his former Barcelona teammate in third place. It’s a list that makes sense in the world of Zlatan — full of respect for the game’s greats but still surprising for its omission of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Ibrahimovic’s long-standing rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo

One reason behind Ronaldo’s absence could be Ibrahimovic’s long-running rivalry with him. The tension between Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic was defined less by on-field clashes and more by a war of words — fueled by both players’ immense egos and unshakable self-belief.

Zlatan, famous for his bold statements, has often tried to downplay Ronaldo’s greatness, suggesting that while he succeeded in multiple leagues, Ronaldo’s achievements at Real Madrid and Juventus were made easier by the world-class players surrounding him.

Despite their rivalry, the two shared memorable on-field duels — especially in Serie A and international competitions. The most iconic came during the 2014 World Cup playoffs, when Ronaldo’s hat trick in the second leg eliminated Zlatan’s Sweden. Even then, Ibrahimovic showed respect for his rival, acknowledging the Portuguese star’s brilliance with a simple but meaningful gesture.

The mix of traits that define Zlatan’s idols

Looking at his selections, it’s easy to see why these three legends resonate with Ibrahimovic. He has often called Ronaldo Nazario his biggest role model, and despite his towering frame, Zlatan has shown flashes of the Brazilian’s flair and creativity inside the box. Maradona’s passion, grit, and touch of arrogance mirror Zlatan’s own mentality, while Messi represents the ultimate example of excellence and consistency — the kind of success every player dreams of achieving.

The Spanish prodigy dazzled in the 2024-25 season, helping Barcelona dominate domestically and making waves in Europe. He played 13 Champions League matches, scored five goals, and provided four assists, proving himself a decisive force on the field.

Yamal also led the Spanish national team to the Euro 2024 title, adding international success to his resume. Fans had expected that such achievements could put him in contention for the Ballon d’Or, yet the award ultimately went to a more seasoned candidate.

Who’s the youngest player to ever win the Ballon d’Or?

The youngest player to ever win the Ballon d’Or is Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario, who captured the award in 1997 at 21 years and 3 months old. At the time, Ronaldo’s incredible season with FC Barcelona and Inter Milan established him as a generational talent.

Ronaldo’s dominance on the field that year was extraordinary. He combined blistering pace, impeccable dribbling, and lethal finishing to leave defenders and goalkeepers helpless. The award recognized his ability to change games single-handedly and solidified his status as one of soccer’s all-time greats.

Even Lionel Messi, who would go on to win the Ballon d’Or seven times, was older than Ronaldo when he claimed his first trophy at 22. That makes Ronaldo’s record the benchmark for every aspiring young player, including Yamal, who continues to chase this milestone.

What’s next for Yamal

While the Ballon d’Or has eluded him for now, Yamal’s trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. At just 18, he has already proven capable of influencing games at the highest levels, combining skill, vision, and maturity beyond his years.

Soccer fans around the world are eagerly watching, knowing it’s only a matter of time before Lamine Yamal has a shot at becoming the youngest Ballon d’Or winner in history—a record that has stood for more than two decades.

Brazilian forward Marta, one of the most decorated players in the history of the women’s game, shared her opinion on the matter. Speaking to FIFA’s official website in 2017, the six-time FIFA World Player of the Year revealed that her pick is Ronaldo Nazario — also known as “O Fenômeno.”

At first, she simply said “Ronaldo,” but clarified her answer given the existence of the Portuguese star with the same name: “Since the question is about ‘all time,’ the answer is Ronaldo O Fenômeno”. Despite choosing the Brazilian legend, Marta also praised the Al Nassr forward.

“My favorite player is Cristiano Ronaldo because he’s a goalscorer. I have to learn from him. I like to watch great players like Cristiano and then try to replicate them on the field,” she explained.

Messi also praised Ronaldo Nazario

Lionel Messi has also praised Ronaldo Nazario in the past. In a 2020 interview with TyC Sports, the Inter Miami star didn’t hesitate when naming the best striker he has ever seen. “Ronaldo Nazario was a phenomenon,” Messi said. “Of all the strikers I have seen, for me, he was the best. An impressive player from every aspect”.

Even after sharing the field with or against top forwards like Luis Suarez, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Villa, and Didier Drogba, Messi has remained firm in his belief that the Brazilian legend stands above the rest.

All of Ronaldo Nazario’s trophies

Cruzeiro

• Copa do Brasil: 1993
• Campeonato Mineiro: 1994

Corinthians

• Campeonato Paulista: 2009
• Copa do Brasil: 2009

PSV Eindhoven

• KNVB Cup: 1995–96
• Johan Cruyff Shield: 1996

Barcelona

• Copa del Rey: 1996–97
• Supercopa de España: 1996
• UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup: 1996–97

Inter Milan

• UEFA Cup: 1997–98

Real Madrid

• La Liga: 2002–03, 2006–07
• Supercopa de España: 2003
• Intercontinental Cup: 2002

Brazil National Team

• FIFA World Cup: 1994, 2002
• Olympic Bronze Medal: 1996
• Copa América: 1997, 1999
• FIFA Confederations Cup: 1997

In a recent interview with DSports, Ronaldo was asked about his expectations for Argentina at the upcoming World Cup. “Having Leo is a huge advantage over the rest of us normal people in the world,” said the former Real Madrid star with his trademark smile.

“I see him in great shape, and I think he’ll arrive at the World Cup in good form too,” Ronaldo said when asked about Messi. That comment is particularly noteworthy, considering the Argentine star just turned 38 and will turn 39 during the tournament, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada next summer.

“I was watching Messi’s games at the Club World Cup, and he’s still got it,” Nazario added. “Every time he touches the ball, something interesting happens. He always reads the game well, understands the play that needs to be made. If he loses the ball, he tries to get it back. He sprints 30 or 40 meters.”

Ronaldo also sees Argentina in good shape

In the same interview, Ronaldo spoke not only about Messi individually, but also about the broader context of the Argentina squad. “I think the Argentina national team has a lot of quality,” he said in reference to the talent of players like Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister.

He also praised the work of the head coach. “(Lionel) Scaloni has built a team that plays soccer with a lot of drive and commitment. A team that supports each other all the time. A very smart team that also knows how to suffer,” the former striker explained.

Ronaldo on Brazil’s current struggles

During his playing career in the 1990s and 2000s, Ronaldo Nazario enjoyed a golden era with the Brazil national team, winning two World Cups (1994 and 2002) and two Copa America titles (1997 and 1999). At the time, Brazil dominated South America and had a clear edge over Argentina. But that dynamic has now shifted.

In another recent appearance on the podcast Mano a Mano, Ronaldo discussed one of his biggest concerns: the development of Brazilian coaches and players. “In Serie A we have ten foreign coaches. They’re more prepared than the Brazilians,” he said bluntly. “For many years, the talents who left did so simply because they were talented—and in many cases, raw.”

To illustrate his point, the two-time world champion cited an example: “A very clear case is Vinicius Jr… He wasn’t developed the right way, because they didn’t improve his left foot, didn’t improve his technical fundamentals, his sense of time and space on the field. He only improved after leaving.”

In a recent interview with Globo Esporte, Ancelotti was asked about the best Brazilian player he has coached in his 30-year career. “Technically, Ronaldo was spectacular and one of the funniest people in the world,” the Italian coach said without hesitation.

Ancelotti was referring, of course, to Ronaldo Nazario—the center forward born in Rio de Janeiro who starred for Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan, and won the 2002 World Cup. Carlo briefly worked with him at AC Milan between 2007 and 2008, though the forward played just 20 matches and scored 9 goals due to recurring injury problems.

In the same interview, the coach also highlighted other Brazilian players he’s worked with throughout his career. “I can tell you that the most professional is Cafu,” he said, referencing the right-back he also coached at AC Milan. “And the funniest… There are many. (Eder) Militao makes me laugh a lot, Vini too.”

Specifically on Vinicius, whom he knows well from their time together at Real Madrid, Carlo explained: “Vini, for example, to me, is very humble. A very, very humble kid.” That strong relationship between the two will now be key as their paths cross again with the Brazil national team.

Ancelotti reflects on his experience with Brazilian players

Over the course of his three-decade coaching career, Carlo Ancelotti has worked with stars from all over the world, giving him rare perspective when it comes to comparing styles and personalities. “The Brazilian player has a higher technical level than others,” he stated.

Speaking about the typical demeanor of Brazilian players, he added: “They manage themselves quite well and have a fairly calm and humble character.” Based on that, Carlo explained that he’s rarely had issues in the past. “I’ve coached 34 Brazilian players and if I think about whether I’ve had any problems with any of them—maybe one, but I won’t tell you who,” he said.

Ancelotti’s first challenge

Carlo Ancelotti won’t have much time to adjust or fully implement his ideas with the squad. His debut comes Thursday, June 5, on Matchday 15 of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Brazil will face Ecuador—one of their direct rivals in the standings—at Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha.

Five days later, they’ll return home to face Paraguay in another crucial match in the race to secure a spot in next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For now, Brazil sit in fourth place in the standings with 21 points—the same as Paraguay and Uruguay—and hold a six-point advantage over Venezuela, who are currently in the playoff position.

The Brazilian icon won two FIFA World Cups (1994 and 2002) with the national team and shined at every club he represented. Beyond his titles, Ronaldo’s legacy is cemented by his extraordinary skill, earning admiration from elite players for his ability to dribble past defenders and score in every way imaginable.

In a recent interview with Romario on the Brazilian star’s YouTube channel, Ronaldo revealed who he considers his greatest teammate. Without hesitation, Ronaldo confidently named his pick: “Zinedine Zidane.”

The two superstars played together for four seasons at Real Madrid during the iconic “Galácticos” era of the early 2000s. Ronaldo was full of praise for Zidane, stating: “He played at a completely different level—so technical, with incredible ease on the ball… My God, what class!”

Together, Ronaldo and Zidane captured three trophies during their time with Los Blancos: a La Liga title, a Spanish Super Cup, and the 2002 Intercontinental Cup. However, Ronaldo joined the club after their 2002 UEFA Champions League triumph, meaning he narrowly missed out on lifting Europe’s most coveted trophy with Zidane and the team.

At the time, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez assembled a team of global stars. From stealing Luis Figo away from Barcelona to signing David Beckham, Perez paired them with existing talents like Roberto Carlos and Iker Casillas. Zidane and Ronaldo were the ultimate finishing touches to a squad destined for greatness.

Ronaldo on his worst teammate

While he was full of praise for Zidane, Ronaldo didn’t shy away from naming the worst teammate he ever had. Without hesitation, he pointed to Danish midfielder Thomas Gravesen. “A really funny guy, but as a footballer, he was a disaster,” Ronaldo remarked. “His only skill was hitting the ball really hard—nothing else”.

In a 2023 appearance on fellow Brazilian Romário’s podcast, Ronaldo unveiled a lineup heavily dominated by Brazilian greats, walking through his selections from back to front.

“Goalkeeper, Gianluigi Buffon. Right-back, Cafu. Center-backs, Franz Beckenbauer and Paolo Maldini. Left-back, Roberto Carlos. Midfielders, Zico and Diego Maradona. In attack, Lionel Messi on the right, myself as center forward, Pelé as a second striker, and Ronaldinho on the left,” Ronaldo explained.

It’s a lineup packed with flair, legacy, and attacking brilliance. His decision to deploy just two midfielders in Zico and Maradona allowed him to field an ultra-offensive front four — including himself — that would strike fear into any defense. Notably absent were names like Zinedine Zidane or Cristiano Ronaldo, further emphasizing his preference for creativity and Brazilian influence.

Ronaldo revisits all-time XI, this time includes Cristiano Ronaldo

A year later, in a 2024 interview with Diario AS, Ronaldo was once again asked to name his all-time XI — and this time, he made some notable changes, including the long-awaited addition of Cristiano Ronaldo. However, this adjustment came at the expense of his former Brazil teammate Ronaldinho.

“Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon. Defenders: Cafu, Paolo Maldini, Fabio Cannavaro, and Roberto Carlos. Midfielders: Diego Maradona, Zinedine Zidane, and Pelé. Forwards: Messi on the right, me in the middle, and Cristiano Ronaldo on the left,” Ronaldo told AS.

The new lineup saw Cannavaro replacing Beckenbauer in central defense, Zidane stepping in for Zico in midfield, and Cristiano Ronaldo slotting into the attack in place of Ronaldinho. While the core remained largely intact, the tweaks reflected a different tactical balance — and perhaps a response to fan reactions from his earlier choices.

Regardless of the variations, both of Ronaldo’s lineups are filled with icons who shaped the modern game — a who’s who of soccer greatness.

The former Brazilian striker confidently claimed that his level during his playing days was superior to that of today’s European stars, including Erling Haaland, Robert Lewandowski, and Zlatan Ibrahimović. “All these guys watched me play, they had my posters in their rooms, man…” Ronaldo joked during an interview with ESPN.

However, when asked to compare himself with Romario—another Brazilian football icon—Ronaldo was more measured in his response. “Romário was tough, really tough… But I think I played more,” said the two-time World Cup champion, who lifted the trophy in 1994 and 2002.

The conversation also turned to Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading goal scorer with 80 goals in 128 appearances, surpassing Ronaldo’s 62 goals in 98 matches. “Neymar is incredible, my God… But I think I played better,” Ronaldo asserted.

Ronaldo vs. Neymar vs. Romário: three legends, one legacy

Brazil has produced some of the greatest forwards in soccer history, and few have left a bigger mark than Ronaldo Nazário, Neymar Jr., and Romário. Though they played in different eras and had distinct playing styles, their careers naturally invite comparisons in terms of impact, achievements, and legacy with the Brazilian national team.

Ronaldo Nazário, known as O Fenômeno, is widely regarded as one of the best strikers of all time. A two-time Ballon d’Or winner and two-time World Cup champion, Ronaldo dominated for clubs like Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid with his blistering speed, technical skill, and prolific goal-scoring ability. Injuries prevented him from an even more dominant career, but his triumphant return at the 2002 World Cup cemented his place among soccer’s greatest legends.

Neymar Jr., on the other hand, represents Brazil’s modern footballing brilliance. His flair, dribbling, and creativity have made him a global icon. At the club level, he has won major titles with Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, including a historic Champions League triumph in 2015 alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. However, unlike Ronaldo and Romario, he has yet to lead Brazil to World Cup glory—something that continues to weigh on his legacy.

Romario was the defining striker of the 1990s, spearheading Brazil’s World Cup-winning campaign in 1994 after a 24-year drought. Known for his clinical finishing, quick movement in tight spaces, and lethal goal-scoring instinct, Romario was a nightmare for defenders. While his club career in Europe was not as enduring as Ronaldo’s or Neymar’s, his contributions to the national team remain legendary.

Does Neymar belong in the same category as Ronaldo and Romario?

When it comes to legacy, Ronaldo and Romário hold the edge thanks to their World Cup triumphs, a feat Neymar has yet to achieve despite his undeniable talent. Even though Neymar has surpassed Pelé as Brazil’s all-time top scorer, his lack of a World Cup title is a significant factor in discussions about his place among the country’s greatest players.

Each of these three superstars left an indelible mark on football, but their legacies differ. Ronaldo is revered for his resilience and ability to overcome adversity, Romario for his goal-scoring prowess, and Neymar as the most commercially influential Brazilian player of the 21st century.

The question remains: Will Neymar elevate himself to the same legendary status as Ronaldo and Romario, or will his career be remembered as one of unfulfilled potential without the ultimate international prize?

Participating in a social media game for Romário TV, where players choose between two footballers, Ronaldo confidently picked himself over some of the best strikers in history. “Ronaldo or Henry? Ronaldo. Ronaldo or Haaland? Ronaldo. Ronaldo or Lewandowski? Ronaldo. Ronaldo or Adriano? Ronaldo. Ronaldo or Cristiano Ronaldo? Ehhh… Ronaldo. Ronaldo or Messi? Eeeeh… Messi. And finally, Ronaldo or Romário? A tie,” he said with a laugh.

Ronaldo ranked himself above the best No. 9s of all time, including modern greats like Erling Haaland and Robert Lewandowski. Despite his injury-riddled career, his impact on the game and his embodiment of Brazilian Jogo Bonito remain undeniable.

However, his choice to place himself above Cristiano Ronaldo raises debate, given that Cristiano holds a far superior statistical resume, including multiple Champions League titles—something Ronaldo never won. But with two World Cups to his name, an accolade Cristiano has yet to achieve, the discussion extends beyond raw numbers.

Ronaldo’s all-time best players

This ranking also brings questions about how Ronaldo truly views his place in soccer history. Back in 2021—before Messi’s World Cup triumph—he shared his personal top four greatest players in an interview with Goal: “For me, in the ranking of the greatest in history, the four names would be Pelé, [Diego] Maradona, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said.

Now that he chooses himself over Cristiano, does he believe he belongs in that top four? Or would it expand to a top five including himself alongside Maradona, Pelé, Messi, and Cristiano? While other legendary players could easily be considered, Ronaldo’s legacy and impact on the sport make his inclusion in this debate far from outlandish.

Ronaldo Nazario’s legacy

Ronaldo Nazario’s career is defined by raw talent, blistering speed, and an uncanny ability to score in any situation. He emerged as a teenage sensation with Cruzeiro before moving to Europe, dominating at PSV Eindhoven and later Barcelona, where he netted 47 goals in 49 games in his lone season. His brilliance earned him a move to Inter Milan, where he won the 1997 Ballon d’Or. However, devastating knee injuries nearly derailed his career.

Despite these setbacks, Ronaldo made a legendary comeback, leading Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002 while winning the Golden Boot with eight goals, including two in the final against Germany. He then joined Real Madrid’s Galácticos, winning LaLiga and securing his second Ballon d’Or. His career continued with stints at AC Milan and Corinthians before retiring in 2011.

With 414 career goals, two World Cups, and a revolutionary style of play, Ronaldo remains one of the most iconic strikers in soccer history, forever shaping the role of the modern No. 9.

“We dominated world soccer for many years, but now we have to be humble enough to understand that we have been surpassed,” Ronaldo said in an interview with former player Romario. He made it clear that Brazil no longer holds the dominant position in global soccer that it did two decades ago.

When discussing the steps Brazil must take to regain its stature, the 2002 Ballon d’Or winner highlighted two key players. “Neymar is an important pillar. Vinicius is also an important pillar. We have two great players. We have to start from there, find a way for the team to play for them,” he explained.

Ronaldo was full of praise for the Santos star’s leadership and impact. “Neymar is a figure who inspires young players. On the field, he has a lot of personality, takes risks, tries, and is not afraid of kicks. He’s a scorer. I hope he comes back well because if he is well, the national team will find a good direction,” Nazario said. He added that Ney’s presence helps to “make up for the structural problems that the national team is experiencing.”

Ronaldo expects more from Vinicius

While Ronaldo acknowledged Vinicius Junior’s incredible performances with Real Madrid, calling his club contributions “crazy,” he made it clear that the winger has not yet replicated that form with the Brazilian national team. “He doesn’t manage to perform the same in the national team,” the former striker stated.

This has been a recurring critique of Vini’s performances with Brazil. Despite his status as one of the best players in the world and the current winner of FIFA’s The Best award, he has yet to make a similar impact with his national team.

Since making his debut in 2019, Vinicius has played 37 matches for Brazil, including friendlies, World Cup qualifiers, the 2021 and 2024 Copa America, and the 2022 World Cup. However, he has not won any titles with Brazil and has scored only five goals—far too few for a player of his caliber.

Ronaldo’s ambition for Brazilian soccer

In the same interview with Romario, Ronaldo expressed his desire to play a key role in the future of Brazilian soccer. He revealed that he feels prepared to serve as the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), aiming to bring “efficient management” and focus on developing young talent. “The CBF has to be the most beloved institution in Brazil. My goal is for soccer to be a transformative agent in Brazil,” he said.

This wouldn’t be Ronaldo’s first venture into soccer management. He currently serves as the president of Real Valladolid, a La Liga club in Spain, and was for years the majority owner of Cruzeiro, one of Brazil’s most storied clubs, where he began his playing career in 1992.