Cristiano Ronaldo didn't hesitate when naming his two footballing idols and he played against both men

Cristiano Ronaldo has previously named his two footballing idols, having played against both men during his illustrious career.

Ronaldo will forever be etched into football history as one of the greatest to play the game.

During his stunning career, the Portuguese has played for huge clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

So far, the 39-year-old has scored 781 goals in 1040 club appearances and is looking to add more to the tally as he currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.

Having won five Ballon d'Or trophies, Ronaldo has inspired a whole new generation of players, such as the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Endrick, Bukayo Saka and Alejandro Garnacho.

But the former Madrid and Juventus superstar also had two idols who he looked up to.

Cristiano Ronaldo had two football idols when growing up

The 39-year-old has admitted to growing up watching Brazilian greats Ronaldo Nazario and Ronaldinho, who both won the 2002 World Cup with Brazil and claimed three Ballon d'Ors.

He pointed out that he has more individual accolades than both yet did concede they have won the World Cup trophy that the Portuguese superstar will likely never get his hands on.

"I don’t like comparisons," Ronaldo said, speaking to ESPN Brasil in 2022.

"I prefer to say that the two [Ronaldo Nazario and Ronaldinho Gaúcho] left their legacy, their history. I can say, by facts, that I won more individual titles than they did, but both won World Cups.

“I sympathize a lot with them. I grew up watching them both play. Saying who is the best, who is second, is not the most important thing."

Ronaldo Nazario and Ronaldinho played together for Brazil. Image: Getty

Ronaldo has played against both men, he faced Brazilian Ronaldo during a charity match organised by Luis Figo, a teammate of both players in his glittering career, back in July 2005.

Meanwhile, Ronaldinho and Ronaldo came face to face in the Champions League during the 10/11, with the Portuguese coming out on top as Madrid beat AC Milan 2-0.

There are a crop of world-class players who could be the heir to the throne of Ronaldo, with him recently naming a slew of players who he thinks are capable of winning the Ballon d'Or.

Back in September, he said on his YouTube channel: "Kylian Mbappe can win the Ballon d'Or for the next few years. Probably Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham [as well].

"Also Lamine Yamal. I think this new generation, they have a lot of potential."