Two-time World Cup winner Ronaldo backed the idea of seeing Carlo Ancelotti take on the Brazil job, compared himself to Kylian Mbappe and touched on the political divisions in his native country.
The Selecao were eliminated by Croatia on penalties in the quarter-finals of the World Cup in Qatar, leaving their various stars in tears after a tough and draining clash. It has been over 20 years since Brazil, the most successful team in World Cup history, have lifted the world title and they’ll have to wait another four years to try again.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ronaldo first discussed which coaches could take on the Brazil job now that Tite has left.
“They would be great maestros. For me it is not a problem to see a foreigner leading Brazil. The names of Ancelotti and Guardiola are credible, as is that of Mourinho.”
He gave his thoughts on the serious political divisions in Brazil.
“The elections have created great confusion in the country. We did not need this mess. Bolsonaro is not the only politician who has put on Brazil’s shirt. But the problem is the intolerance that characterizes our times, those who think differently are no longer respected.
“It happened that some in Brazil made voting declarations and were almost crucified for it. Brazil is living a very difficult time and I would like people to rediscover the civic sense of peaceful coexistence, respect for different opinions.”
The former Inter star gave some advice to Neymar.
“To move on, without a doubt. However, it is normal that he is depressed, the mental health of athletes, especially if they are very exposed like him, should be monitored by good professionals.”
Ronaldo was open to helping out the Brazil national team.
“I will always be available to help Brazil. Always. It would have to be figured out how, but I would gladly do it.”
He commented on his favourites for the World Cup.
“I thought the favourites were Brazil and France. Brazil has gone home and that leaves France, who have confirmed all their potential so far. And apparently they can also handle the pressure.”
The two-time World Cup winner gave his thoughts on France star Mbappe.
“He reminds me of me when I played, quick, powerful, technical. And he knows how to use his qualities in the best way.
“He impresses me a lot because, in a football where everyone goes fast, he is very fast, he has an edge. He has a natural talent, he is often decisive, I think he is the best player in the World Cup.”
He spoke about the idea of seeing Lionel Messi lift the World Cup with Argentina.
“We all deserve it, but football is a team game and nobody gives you anything because of your personal history. He certainly has a good chance of succeeding. Messi now has to deal with age, he takes fewer shots than before, however, near the penalty area he is always a killer.
“Compared to the past, I see him more charged and determined. Everyone changes over time and the desire to win the World Cup pushes you to go further in every aspect, including character.”
Ronaldo touched on if he was supporting Messi and Argentina at the tournament.
“I would be hypocritical if I said yes. The rivalry between Brazil and Argentina is very strong, I would not be happy with their success.
“And then Argentina does not play great football, however, they always have a lot of desire to win, they can be aggressive, they run a lot.”
He revealed that he was supporting Morocco at the World Cup.
“I would like them to win the World Cup. Everything is fantastic, how they attack, how they defend, how they are united.
“And I’m enchanted by the joy they have given their people and all of Africa, it’s a joy that only football can give.”
Finally, Ronaldo commented on a recent quote by Kaka, where the former Milan star stated that Ronaldo was only seen as a walking fat guy in Brazil.
“No, no problem with Kaka. Actually, there was a translation error and Ricky only meant to say that great Brazilian champions are sometimes more respected abroad than at home.”
Not need to compare himself to Mbappe, Mbabbes idol is Cristiano and he is ashamed to be compared to ronaldo9
Fair point. Both similar players with explosiveness & strength. However R9 dribbling at full speed with all the stepovers, elasticos, nutmegs, Never seen anyone with the moves combined with speed ever again. Mbappe doesn’t have this. R9 still the dream number 9. Did i mention free kicks…