Former Real Madrid player claims Cristiano Ronaldo ‘doesn’t know how to play football’

In a striking outburst during a recent podcast, former Real Madrid player Antonio Cassano accused Cristiano Ronaldo of “not knowing how to play football.” Cassano, who had a notable career playing for clubs like Roma, Real Madrid, and AC Milan, has previously criticized Ronaldo for being selfish. In 2021, Cassano remarked that Ronaldo “doesn’t care if others score; he only lives to score himself.” He added, “He doesn’t live for football, he lives for his own goals.”

Cassano further stirred controversy by naming five players he believes are better than Ronaldo: Lionel Messi, Pelé, Diego Maradona, Johan Cruyff, and Ronaldo ‘O Fenómeno. He dismissed claims made by Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is the greatest player of all time, stating that Ronaldo doesn’t even belong in the top five.

Amid Ronaldo’s slower start to the 2022/23 season, Cassano suggested that the Portuguese star should retire, saying, “Cristiano should love himself, do himself a favor, and understand that if he cannot reach a certain level, he must end his career.” He praised Ronaldo’s past achievements but insisted that it was time for him to step aside.

Cassano, who scored 139 goals in his career compared to Ronaldo’s 902, expressed his personal dislike for Ronaldo’s playing style, despite respecting his accomplishments. “Messi is like Maradona,” Cassano added, referring to Messi’s journey from Argentina and the sacrifices he made to reach the top.

During his brief time at Real Madrid from 2006 to 2008, Cassano scored just four goals, while Ronaldo went on to score a staggering 450 goals for the club. Despite this gap, Cassano remains critical of Ronaldo, saying, “Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t know how to play football. He could score 3,000 goals, I don’t give a f***.” He contrasted Ronaldo with other top strikers like Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero, Karim Benzema, Robert Lewandowski, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Luis Suárez, who he believes were better at team play.

Cassano also claimed that Ronaldo, upset by his comments, once sent him messages demanding respect for his accomplishments. According to Cassano, Ronaldo wrote to him, listing his goals and trophies. In response, Cassano said, “Dear Cristiano, you have everything. Be calm and relaxed. Take your example from Messi, who doesn’t care about anything or anyone.” Cassano said the exchange made him angry, but he remained unapologetic about his opinions.