| HEADLINE |
|
Messi, Pele and Maradona may be the greatest, but I am the most complete: Ronaldo
Published : Monday, 12 October, 2026 at 5:20 PM
Observer Online Report
Cristiano Ronaldo believes he is the greatest and most complete footballer in history, saying that although fans may choose Lionel Messi, Pele or Diego Maradona as the best, he has no doubts about his own abilities and achievements.
The Portuguese superstar’s remarks have resurfaced on social media after excerpts from an old interview with Spanish journalist and close friend Edu Aguirre circulated online. CNN Portugal published parts of the interview on Monday (October 12), including Ronaldo’s views on his status in football history and his pursuit of 1,000 career goals.
The interview was originally broadcast by Spanish television channel La Sexta on February 3, 2025, shortly before Ronaldo’s 40th birthday.
Asked whether he considered himself the greatest footballer of all time, Ronaldo replied confidently: “I think so. I haven’t seen anyone better than myself.”
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward acknowledged that many fans might prefer Messi, Pele or Maradona. However, he maintained that he was the most complete player in football history.
Ronaldo cited his ability to score with both feet, his heading skills, free-kick expertise, pace and physical strength as qualities that set him apart.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also discussed his pursuit of 1,000 career goals, saying that excessive focus on the milestone sometimes distracts attention from his performances on the pitch.
His old remarks have resurfaced amid controversy surrounding his involvement with the Portugal national team.
Ronaldo reportedly had a disagreement with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus after being left on the bench against Norway. He subsequently left the national team camp before the match against Denmark, accusing the coach of breaking promises regarding his playing time.
Reports have also indicated that the Portuguese Football Federation temporarily suspended Ronaldo over the incident, with disciplinary proceedings under way.
Despite the controversy, the forward has indicated that he remains ready to represent Portugal after serving his suspension.
The 41-year-old continues to play for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, while the prospect of reaching 1,000 career goals remains a major talking point. Ronaldo is currently just 20 goals away from the milestone.
sks
Loading...
Loading...
Also read
Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
