Why does Brazilian legend think young players should copy Ronaldo, not Messi?

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·30. November 2025

Why does Brazilian legend think young players should copy Ronaldo, not Messi?

Real Madrid legend praises Ronaldo’s mentality and compares Messi to Zidane

Why does Brazilian legend think young players should copy Ronaldo, not Messi?

OneFootball Videos

Brazilian icon Roberto Carlos stepped into one of football’s most heated debates offering his perspective on the long standing rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo & Lionel Messi.

Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, the former Real Madrid left back said aspiring footballers should model themselves on Cristiano Ronaldo’s work ethic describing the Portuguese captain as the ultimate example of sacrifice & professionalism.

🗣️ Roberto Carlos: “In the four years of Galactico, Beckham was the most consistent. Beckham attacked, defended, passed. Things that the media did not see. He was very special.” 🤍
– Samstag, 29. November 2025

“For football player, Cristiano is the role model. He has made far greater sacrifices. Messi is more like Zidane full of natural elegance. But for children who want to become footballers, they should look at Cristiano Ronaldo’s sacrifices.”

The rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi? Roberto Carlos: “For me, Cristiano is better in terms of physicality and professionalism. Messi is like Zidane, a showman. Each of them has his own unique style. Cristiano Ronaldo stands out because of his personal training and
– Samstag, 29. November 2025

When asked about the greatest players he shared dressing room with at Real Madrid, Roberto Carlos gave surprising answer:

“Beckham was the best among them all. Zidane was top class and the best in many ways but David was the best in training and in matches.. he never disappointed anyone.”

On Ancelotti leading Brazil

Roberto Carlos also expressed confidence in Carlo Ancelotti who has taken charge of the Brazilian national team:

“Ancelotti knows how to adapt to any club or national team. Brazil under Ancelotti can deliver great World Cup. With Neymar, Vinicius and Rodrygo at their best, they have incredible team but they still have problem keeping possession.”