Brazil legend Zico approves Cristiano Ronaldo’s claim of ‘best in football’

Brazil football great Zico said he would have considered Cristiano Ronaldo his role model if he played today. The 71-year-old once called 'White Pele' for his abilities on the ball that resembled the legend, made the remark during a podcast.

Zico took no objection to Ronaldo boasting about being the 'best in football'. "Yes, he has to say it. People talk about him as if he was just a goalscorer and that's not true," said Zico, considered one of the greats to ever play for the Brazil national football team.

"Cristiano is a great reference for any footballer because he was not only born with the talent of other players, he became the best thanks to his dedication and effort," Zico added.

Zico has had a busy coaching career since retiring as a player in the mid-1990s. He had a coaching spell with FC Goa in the Indian Super League.

Ronaldo, who turned 40 on February 5, declared himself the 'Best in football'. In an interview with Edu Aguirre on Spanish television show El Chiringuito, Ronaldo claimed that he was not only greater than his nemesis Lionel Messi but also on a higher level than the late icons Pele and Maradona.

"I’m the most complete player ever. To say that Cristiano isn’t complete is a lie," Ronaldo told Aguirre. "You may prefer Pele, Messi, Maradona, I understand and respect that," said the Portuguese superstar.