Cristiano Ronaldo, in 2023, named his greatest lineup comprised of teammates whom he played with in the past. However, the XI did not include the likes of Ryan Giggs, Mesut Ozil, or Carlos Tevez.
Cristiano Ronaldo is considered one of the greatest players to have graced the game. The Portuguese superstar has amassed a plethora of trophies and is currently plying his trade in Saudi Arabia for Al-Nassr.
He has showcased his extraordinary talent and versatility in most of Europe’s elite leagues, playing for Real Madrid, Manchester United, Juventus and Sporting. Over the course of his career, Ronaldo has played alongside some great players as well.
During an interview with GOAL Arabia last year, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner named his greatest XI from the teammates he’s had. The lineup mostly featured Real Madrid legends, with a few Manchester United icons as well.
The only Juventus teammate he chose was club legend Giorgio Chiellini, who is considered one of the best center-backs of his generation.
In goal, Cristiano Ronaldo picked former Real Madrid shot-stopper Iker Casillas. His back four included Sergio Ramos, Rio Ferdinand, Chiellini, and Marcelo.
The 39-year-old chose Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Paul Scholes in midfield, leaving no space for the likes of Giggs and Ozil. Ronaldo’s front three spots were taken up by Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema, whom he formed an iconic attacking partnership with at Real Madrid, and Wayne Rooney.
Michael Owen offers his thoughts on Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate
Liverpool legend Michael Owen has offered his two cents on the never-ending GOAT debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Messi and Ronaldo have taken the spotlight in the footballing world for the better part of the last two decades. The pair have rivaled each other, shattering records and soaring to new heights.
They are the top two goalscorers of all time, with Ronaldo at 916 and Messi at 850, and they have a whopping 13 Ballon d’Or awards between them.
During an interview with TNT Sports Mexico, Owen weighed in on the debate and said (via Bola Vip):
“I think naturally, Messi is the best player I’ve ever seen. He was just born to be great. Meanwhile, I love the way Ronaldo has worked so hard to be as good as he is, showing similar qualities and earning a rightful spot in this conversation. Messi doesn’t even look like he’s trying, and it just comes so naturally—it’s incredible.”
Edited by Sankalp Srivastava