Ronaldo, the former Brazil and Real Madrid striker, was rave about Samuel Eto’o, his former Barça rival.
The former legend of Brazilian football, Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima known as Ronaldo, wore the Real Madrid jersey from 2002 to 2007, during which he experienced exciting Clasicos between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. In an interview with O Globo, the double world champion reflected on these emblematic confrontations, highlighting the fierce rivalry between the two clubs and expressing his particular admiration for former Barça striker, Samuel Eto’o.
Although Ronaldo played alongside Ronaldinho with Brazil, notably during the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan, it is the goalscoring talent of Indomitable Lions which particularly captivated the former Auriverdes striker. “At one time, Barça had Ronaldinho and Eto’o. For us, it was the Galactics era and the Clasicos were difficult matches. Of course, I knew Ronaldinho’s talent. We won the 2002 World Cup together. But the Barça player who impressed me the most was Samuel Eto’o,” said R9.
“We would have formed a beastly duo”
The 1997 and 2002 Ballon d’Or winner highlighted the similar trajectory he shared with Eto’o, expressing regret at not having had the opportunity to play alongside the Cameroonian international. “We have the same trajectory, he played in Madrid, Barcelona and Inter like me. I like his mentality, he is fast, technical and efficient. He could play anywhere on the pitch, making vertical runs to press and touch the ball. Eto’o is a fighter and if I had had the opportunity to play with him, we would have formed a beast duo in attack.
