Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic have been two of the best footballers in the world over the past 20 years.
Both had trophy winning spells at Manchester United, with Ronaldo recently returning to the club.
Zlatan currently leads the line for AC Milan, and teammate Rafael Leao was asked to choose between the two in a recent interview.
Leao plays with Ronaldo for the Portugal national team and had an answer which may upset Zlatan.
He was quoted by Football Italia: “They are two great players that I admire a lot, I always try to learn from them. But obviously I’m happier to be able to share the pitch with Ronaldo. He’s a player that I really admire very much.”
Leao then sought to try and minimise any potential upset his words may cause back in Milan over the ex-Juventus striker, suggesting he is very happy to play with both.
Zlatan showing Ronaldo the way
At the age of 36, Ronaldo is proving wrong the pundits who speculated he may not be able to cut it in the Premier League. Ronaldo has nine goals in all competitions for United.
He has a three year contract at United and it feels like he may be able to go on playing at the highest level into his 40s.
Zlatan is already there. The Swedish striker celebrated his 40th birthday in early October.
He even bounced back from a career threatening knee injury which interrupted his United career and is still playing a key role in one of Europe’s top five leagues.
Zlatan has three goals in six Serie A games this season for Milan.
Whatever your opinion of who you prefer, Ronaldo or Zlatan, there’s no doubt the Swede is an inspiration as he continues to prove age is just a number.
Ronaldo is also a very special player who takes pride in his fitness and he will view Zlatan’s longevity as extra reason to believe he can continue.
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