Cristiano Ronaldo’s past claim about being football’s best-ever player has resurfaced amid controversy surrounding Portugal, renewing debate over his legacy and status in the game.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s claim that he is the greatest footballer of all time has resurfaced amid renewed controversy surrounding his role in Portugal’s national team.
CNN Portugal shared clips from an interview with Spanish journalist Edu Aguirre on social media on Monday, October 12. The footage featured Ronaldo discussing his place in football history and his pursuit of 1,000 career goals.
However, the comments were not new. The interview originally aired on Spanish television channel La Sexta on February 3, 2025, shortly before Ronaldo’s 40th birthday.
‘I Haven’t Seen Anyone Better Than Me’
During the interview, Ronaldo was asked whether he considered himself the greatest footballer in history.
“I think so. I haven’t seen anyone better than me,” the five-time Ballon d’Or winner said, explaining that he genuinely believed in his assessment.
Ronaldo acknowledged that some fans might favour Lionel Messi, Pelé or Diego Maradona. However, he maintained that his combination of abilities made him the most complete player in football history.
The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward pointed to his ability to score with both feet, his heading, free kicks, speed and physical strength as reasons for his confidence.
Ronaldo Discusses His Pursuit of 1,000 Career Goals
Ronaldo also addressed the attention surrounding his ambition to reach 1,000 career goals, saying the focus on the milestone could distract from his performances.
During the interview, he argued that finishing with 920, 925 or 930 goals would not change how he viewed his achievements.
Although he described reaching 1,000 as a special milestone, he said he wanted it to happen naturally rather than become an obsession.
Ronaldo also suggested that he could retire without regrets because he had already established his legacy, while maintaining that he still had plenty to contribute on the pitch.
Portugal Controversy Puts Ronaldo’s Future in Focus
The interview has resurfaced amid claims of a disagreement between Ronaldo and Portugal coach Jorge Jesus over his playing time.
According to the supplied report, Ronaldo was left on the bench against Norway before leaving the national team camp ahead of the match against Denmark. He reportedly accused Jesus of breaking promises about his role in the team.
The report also states that the Portuguese Football Federation provisionally suspended Ronaldo while disciplinary proceedings were underway. His status and the details of any disciplinary action require confirmation from official federation statements.
Despite the reported dispute, Ronaldo has indicated that he remains available to represent Portugal after serving any punishment imposed.
Ronaldo Continues His Pursuit of 1,000 Goals
Ronaldo continues to play for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, with the prospect of reaching 1,000 career goals remaining a major talking point.
His comments about being football’s greatest player have long fueled debate over his legacy, particularly when compared with Messi and other celebrated players.
Whether supporters agree with his assessment or not, Ronaldo has made his position clear: he believes his all-round ability places him at the top of football history.
Portugal national team player and Saudi Al Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo holds his All-Time Goalscorer Award in the UEFA Champions League on stage during the group-stage draw ceremony for the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco on August 29.
AFP/ Gulf News
