Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario's all-time greatest XI
R9 is regarded as one of the most talented footballers to ever grace the pitch
One of Brazil's all-time greats is Ronaldo Nazario, also known as Ronaldo Luis Nazario de Lima or "O Fenômeno" or simply as "The Phenomenon". He was a striker who enjoyed a very great career, playing for teams like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and AC Milan while also taking home many national as well as international trophies.
Ronaldo was a problem for defenders to contain because of his amazing pace, dribbling ability, and finishing prowess. With the Brazilian national squad, he secured two World Cup titles and three FIFA World Player of the Year awards. He is a football icon and an example to aspiring players all over the globe. In light of this, it is appropriate to assemble a list of the All Time Best XI players that Ronaldo Nazario would pick for his dream squad.
In a 4-4-2 formation, the following is Ronaldo Nazario's all-time best XI.
Goalkeeper - Gianluigi Buffon
Gianluigi Buffon, who has won numerous international and domestic titles with his clubs and nation, is among the most decorated goalkeepers in history. He has lightning-quick reactions, knack for blocking shots, and dominant presence in the penalty area. Buffon is the perfect goalkeeper for Ronaldo Nazario's all-time greatest XI because of his leadership qualities as well.
Defenders
Right-Back - Cafu
One of the greatest full-backs in football history, according to many, is Cafu. He enjoyed a great playing career, winning two World Cups with Brazil's national squad in addition to playing for teams like Sao Paulo, Roma, and AC Milan. Due to his legendary speed and endurance, Cafu was able to move quickly up and down the right wing and help to both the offensive and defense. He was a great defense as well, with great placement and tackling skills.
Center Back - Paolo Maldini
Paolo Maldini is one of the greatest defenders of all time. He played for AC Milan throughout his entire career, earning multiple national and international championships, including five Champions Champions leagues. Maldini had a reputation for having superb technical ability, a keen sense of the game, and the capacity to make crucial clearances and saves. As the Italian national team's and Milan's skipper, he was a superb leader and role model and could definitely lead Ronaldo Nazario's all time best XI.
Center Back - Fabio Cannavaro
Fabio Cannavaro is an Italian defender who played for clubs like Napoli, Parma, Juventus, and Real Madrid during his great club career, which included the 2006 World Cup victory with Italy. Cannavaro was lauded for his determination and ability to analyze the game, making opportune interceptions and tackles. He was a fantastic skipper for both his club and the national team, demonstrating his leadership abilities on the field.
Left Back - Roberto Carlos (Brazil)
One of the most aggressive full-backs in football history is Roberto Carlos. He was a successful player who represented the Brazilian national team and teams like Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Fenerbahce. Carlos was a dangerous attacker and a strong defense thanks to his incredible speed and strong left foot. Additionally, he was a fantastic team player who constantly tried to set up his colleagues with precise crosses and through balls.
Midfield
Attacking Midfielder - Diego Maradona (Argentina)
Many people rank Argentine midfielder Diego Maradona among the all-time best football players. He played for teams like Napoli and Barca, and in 1986, he captained Argentina to the World Cup title. Maradona was like a dynamic force in the middle of the field and his tight control and dribbling abilities were breathtaking. He could score from nearly any spot on the pitch and had an excellent eye for goal. A generation of athletes were influenced by Maradona's originality and flair and would add wonders to all time best XI.
Center Midfielder - Zinedine Zidane (France)
French midfielder Zinedine Zidane is known as one of the greatest midfielders of all time. He used to have a refined playing style, faultless technique, and clear eyesight. Zidane won numerous national and foreign championships while playing for teams like Juventus and Real Madrid. He also assisted France in winning the 1998 World Cup and the 2000 Championship. Zidane was a dynamic force in the middle of the field. He had an unmatched capacity for game reading and creating scoring chances for his teammates.
Center Midfielder - Andrea Pirlo (Italy)
Italian midfielder Andrea Pirlo, known to be one of the best deep-lying playmakers in football history played for teams like AC Milan and Juventus and won many both domestic and international championships. Pirlo had superb vision, passing range, and capacity to manage the game's pace. He was an expert with the long pass and had the ability to open up play from deep in midfield. Pirlo and Italy also won the World Cup in 2006.
Attacking Midfielder - Lionel Messi (Argentina)
One of the greatest football players of all time is generally regarded to be the Argentine playmaker Lionel Messi. He has played for Barcelona and PSG in his professional career, winning multiple national and international tournaments. Messi is renowned for his amazing agility, speed, and dribbling skills. He also has a keen eye for goals and is a superb playmaker. Messi has a remarkable seven Ballon d'Or victories and helped Argentina win the Copa America in 2021 and FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.
Attackers
Center Forward - Pele (Brazil)
Pele, the Brazilian attacker, is regarded as one of the best players in football history. He spent nearly 20 years playing for Brazilian club Santos, where he won multiple national and international championships. Pele was a versatile forward who could operate as an offensive midfielder, winger, or striker. Throughout his tenure, he scored frequently. With Brazil, Pele won three World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970. Over the course of his career, he tallied 1281 goals in 1363 games.
Center Forward - Ronaldo (Brazil)
Ronaldo Nazario named himself among the great Pele as an attacker for his all time best XI. Ronaldo could score from nearly any spot on the field thanks to his superb dribbling, strength, speed, and tactical abilities and a sharp eye for goal. Many football fans consider the Brazilain striker as one of the best talenys to every grace the pitch, but sadly his carrer was hit with constant injuries.
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