CurrentReport Blog Brazilian football icon Zico has thrown his support behind Cristiano Ronaldo, backing the Portuguese superstar’s recent claim of being the greatest footballer of all time (GOAT).
Zico, a former Flamengo and Brazil national team legend, acknowledged Ronaldo’s statement, stating that his greatness is not just about natural talent but about relentless hard work and dedication.
Cristiano Ronaldo: The Hardest Worker in Football
Ronaldo, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest ever, recently asserted that no footballer, dead or alive, surpasses him in terms of completeness. He ranked himself above football icons such as Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, and Pelé.
Despite being 40 years old, the Al-Nassr forward continues to dominate the Saudi Pro League, showcasing his incredible longevity and consistency.
Speaking in an interview, Zico supported Ronaldo’s claim, explaining that unlike some naturally gifted footballers, Ronaldo built his greatness through sheer determination.
Zico: “Cristiano Ronaldo Earned His GOAT Status”
During an interview reported by The NassrZone via Sportskeeda, Zico dismissed any notion that Ronaldo’s statement was arrogant, insisting that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is a role model for aspiring footballers.
**“No, he absolutely should say that. People talk about him as if he’s just a goalscorer, but that’s not true, man. Cristiano is a great reference for any footballer because he wasn’t born with the talent of other players—he became the best through sheer dedication and effort.
“I hope he scores 2,000 goals or more. He rarely gets injured and never stops training. He has dedicated his life to football, and that deserves applause and respect,”** Zico stated.
Ronaldo’s Impressive Career Stats
Ronaldo’s work ethic and discipline have played a major role in his record-breaking career. The Portuguese legend has amassed:
924 career goals
257 assists
1,263 career appearances across all competitions
His goal tally continues to rise as he leads Al-Nassr’s attack in the Saudi Pro League, proving that age is just a number.
Ronaldo vs. Messi Debate Continues
Ronaldo’s statement has reignited debates over who is football’s true GOAT, with many still comparing him to Lionel Messi.
While Messi is known for his natural dribbling ability and playmaking skills, Ronaldo’s versatility, athleticism, and goal-scoring ability set him apart.
Zico’s comments add another perspective to the debate, highlighting how Ronaldo’s relentless drive and work ethic have shaped him into one of the greatest footballers in history.
With Zico backing Ronaldo’s claim, the discussion over the greatest footballer of all time remains a hot topic. Whether Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, or Pelé holds the GOAT title is subjective, but Ronaldo’s dedication and longevity in the game are undeniable.
As he continues to break records and score goals, Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy as one of football’s greatest players is firmly secured.
