Barcelona legend Daniel Alves has apparently buried the hatchet with Cristiano Ronaldo, although the Portuguese star may not be too happy about the full-back’s comments.
Alves insists their spirited relationship existed only as a result of the rivalry between La Liga giants Barca and Real Madrid.
He goes on to state a deep admiration for the legendary goalscorer, saying:
“I love Cristiano. Now that we are no longer at Barça or Madrid, I can speak, as it always seemed to me that I couldn’t”.
Dani Alves: “I love Cristiano. Now that we are no longer at Barça or Madrid, I can speak, as it always seemed to me that I couldn’t.” [Marca via Football Espana] #mufc
— RedReveal (@RedReveal) September 23, 2022
Barely a respite from that praise, however, came what appeared to be a veiled criticism of Ronaldo’s footballing talents.
“Cristiano exemplifies, for all of us who don’t have that much quality, that with hard work you can compete against the best. I respect him a lot and I had the opportunity to tell him.”
Alves: “Cristiano exemplifies, for all of us who don’t have as much quality, that with hard work you can compete against the best. I respect him a lot and I had the opportunity to tell him.” #mufc
— RedReveal (@RedReveal) September 23, 2022
While his commitment to training camp and his impeccable fitness are a huge contributor to his success, the legendary striker may not be too pleased with suggestions that he doesn’t have “a lot of quality.”
If that doesn’t ruffle Ronaldo’s feathers, Alves’ sacking of Ronaldo in favor of his arch-rival just might.
“I identify with him because everything I did in my life was based on work. As a player I am closer to Cristiano than to Messi, because of work, not because of talent. Leo is a born talent, at a level that only he can reach”.
Alves: “I identify with him, because everything I’ve done in my life has been based on work. As a player, I’m closer to Cristiano than to Messi, because of work, not because of talent. Leo is a born talent, at a that only he can achieve. #mufc
— RedReveal (@RedReveal) September 23, 2022
Ronaldo and Messi have spent more than a decade locked in a battle for the Ballon d’Or, with the former probably disappointed to be two behind the latter.
Regardless of whether Alves was genuine in his attempt to extend an olive branch to his bitter rival, it is doubtful the United star will be overly impressed by the Brazilian’s comments.
Ronaldo has had a rocky start to life under Erik ten Hag and appears to have been sidelined by the new regime.
Finishing his career with fewer Ballon d’Ors than Lionel Messi is a certainty at this stage, and that will hurt United’s number seven bitterly.
