Cristiano Ronaldo, the iconic Portugal captain, shared his enjoyment of playing at Barcelona’s Nou Camp, despite the boos and insults from the crowd. Speaking on Spanish TV show La Sexta, Ronaldo, who turns 40 this Wednesday, opened up about his career, legacy, and rivalries.
Ronaldo, who has five Ballon d’Ors and a staggering 923 competitive goals, firmly believes in his superiority. He stated, “I believe I am the best player in football history, no one has been better.” He continued, “The numbers say I am the most complete footballer that has ever existed. People can like Messi, Maradona, Pele… and I respect that, yes, but I am the most complex and the numbers say that.”
Despite his respect for other legends, he confidently maintained, “In the history of football, I haven’t seen anyone better than me. I tell the truth from the heart.” Ronaldo also highlighted his diverse skillset, saying, “I’m fast, strong, I score goals with my head or my left foot, no one has ever been more complete than me. I am the best player in history. I really believe that.”
In a fascinating revelation, Ronaldo admitted that he could have played for Barcelona before his move to Manchester United. He explained, “I could have played for Barca. They tried to get me when I was at Sporting. They wanted me, but a year later Manchester United came along.”
As one of the defining figures in Real Madrid’s history, Ronaldo’s rivalry with Lionel Messi at Barcelona is well-known. However, Ronaldo revealed that despite the hostile atmosphere, he thoroughly enjoyed his matches at the Nou Camp, saying, “I loved playing at the Camp Nou. They booed me, they insulted me and I loved it!”
Ronaldo also commented on the recent Ballon d’Or announcement, where he expressed admiration for Vinícius Júnior, saying, “Vini deserved to win the Ballon d’Or, but I’m not surprised… it lacks credibility.” He praised the Brazilian, adding, “He won the Champions League and scored goals.”
As he approaches his 40th birthday, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to stand firm as one of football’s greatest and most self-assured stars, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy.
