Cristiano Ronaldo has a huge fan in Manchester City. This City Stalwart is someone who was mainly inspired by the Portuguese superstar’s reign in Manchester United. The soccer legend’s first stint at the Red Devils from 2003 to 2009 was nothing less than legendary. It was a period of meteoric rise, unbelievable skill, and trophy-laden dominance, cementing his name forever in United’s history.
During his time at the English club, the Portuguese superstar solidified his status as one of the greatest soccer stars of all time. While the 38-year-old was a part of United, he also won his first Ballon d’Or in 2008 after taking the Premier League by storm. Ronaldo inspired millions through his soccer prowess and work ethic, including a player who stars for United’s local rivals, Manchester City. And no, we’re not talking about Erling Haaland.
Cristiano Ronaldo was a huge inspiration
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Portuguese soccer star Bernardo Silva recently sat down with Abola to discuss his soccer journey. In the beginning, he claimed that legends like Ronaldo inspired him the most during his early days. He said, “The way we see the game changes a lot over the years. Therefore, the little boy who watched videos of Ronaldinho, Zidane and Rui Costa, and Pablo Aimar, Figo or Cristiano Ronaldo a little later at United… with the years begins to perceive the game differently and value other things.”
He further added that the more he stayed connected with the game, the more he progressed as a sportsman. According to him, people might find it hard to realize the internal growth of a player, as they are unaware of the deeper part of soccer. He further stated that, with time, he lost the irreverence that he carried along with him.
Even after being highly motivated by the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, City’s midfielder claimed that he wished to have N’Golo Kante‘s work ethic. Additionally, one of his biggest dreams was to have the elegance of Spanish soccer star David Silva. Further, during the conversation, he also detailed how he felt about sharing an achievement with Ronaldo.
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An achievement similar to that of the soccer legend
City’s midfielder was ranked ninth in the 2022–23 Ballon d’Or. This made him the fourth Portuguese soccer star to make it twice in the top ten for the Ballon d’Or run. The rest of them were Eusebio, Luis Figo, and Cristiano Ronaldo himself. According to Silva, it was indeed a glorious moment of joy to achieve something that Ronaldo also did.
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The 29-year-old strongly believes that in soccer, it always feels wonderful to achieve a milestone together. Nonetheless, being individually recognized for your soccer prowess alone is something huge, which undoubtedly makes him happy. Do you think that Bernardo Silva is one of the best Portuguese players after Ronaldo? Let us know in the comments below.
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