"People talk like he's just a goal scorer" - Brazil legend Zico hits back at Cristiano Ronaldo's critics; wants Portugal icon to score 2000 goals

Brazil legend Zico has said that if he were starting his career today, Cristiano Ronaldo would be his reference. He slammed the Portuguese icon's critics, hailing his dedication and abilities.

Cristiano Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the two greatest players of all time, along with Lionel Messi. He has also often hailed himself as the best and the most complete player in the world. This has led to many criticizing him, labeling him as arrogant.

However, Zico has slammed the Al-Nassr superstar's critics, saying (h/t One Football):

“No, he has to say it, people talk like he's just a goal scorer, he didn't receive the gift of some other players, but he became the best through his dedication. He's 40 years old running more than a lot of people.

“I hope he scores two thousand goals! He doesn't get injured, he’s never out, he doesn't stop training, he doesn't go out at night. if I were starting my career, he would be my reference. I regret that I still haven't met him in person. One day I hope to meet him to give him a hug and congratulate him on his story.”

Zico, notably, has Portuguese descent but recorded 48 goals and 21 assists in 71 games for Brazil.

---

Ronaldo Nazario named 5 better players than Cristiano Ronaldo

Meanwhile, another Brazilian legend, Ronaldo Nazario, claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo is only sixth in his list of the Top 10 players of all time. He disagreed with the Portugal veteran's comments that he is the most complete player in history, and said:

“(Ronaldo) has a fantastic story, doesn’t he? He conquered wonderful things, he scored goals in all ways, including a change of position because he has played as a winger and as a striker. That’s not easy. He’s among the best in history, but I don’t know about the best… No, I don’t agree. I respect his opinion, but for me he is among the best. I would say among the top 10."

He also shared his list of the Top 10 players of all time, saying:

“Pelé is number one, followed by Messi and Maradona tied together, then Zico, Romário, Cristiano Ronaldo, Van Basten, Zidane, Figo and Rivaldo.”

Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, has won five Ballons d'Or and five UEFA Champions League trophies, among numerous individual and team honors. He is also the all-time top scorer in men's football with 952 goals.