When football fans reminisce about the most dazzling talents of the modern era, Ronaldinho’s name often floats right to the top. The Brazilian maestro’s infectious smile, gravity-defying dribbles, and spellbinding tricks made him a global icon in the mid-2000s. But even the most gifted have their own heroes—and sometimes, a tinge of envy. In a candid admission, Ronaldinho revealed his admiration, and yes, a bit of jealousy, for a certain Manchester United legend’s unique abilities on the pitch.
Ronaldinho’s journey to football superstardom began in the bustling academy of Gremio, his hometown club in Brazil. Fans there still recall his teenage exploits with awe. By 2001, his reputation had soared, earning him a move to Paris Saint-Germain. Though he netted an impressive 25 goals in 77 appearances for PSG, silverware eluded him in the French capital. Yet, it was clear: Ronaldinho was destined for the grandest stages.
The real magic unfolded after his transfer to Barcelona. At Camp Nou, Ronaldinho hit his stride, orchestrating attacks and dazzling crowds with his visionary play. His efforts culminated in the 2005 Ballon d'Or, a crowning achievement that cemented his status among the world’s elite. With Barcelona, he secured two La Liga titles and a Champions League crown, etching his name into club folklore. After his spell in Spain, Ronaldinho moved to AC Milan in 2008, before winding down his career with Flamengo, Atletico Mineiro, Queretaro, and Fluminense, retiring in 2015.
On the international stage, Ronaldinho’s legacy sparkled just as brightly. He donned the famous yellow of Brazil 97 times, scoring 33 goals between 1999 and 2013. He was pivotal in Brazil’s triumphs at the 1999 Copa America, the unforgettable 2002 FIFA World Cup, and the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup. Even a decade after hanging up his boots, Ronaldinho’s exuberant performances remain etched in the memories of fans worldwide.
Yet, for all his breathtaking skill, Ronaldinho was quick to acknowledge that he couldn’t do it all. In a moment of humility, he confessed his envy of Paul Scholes, the Manchester United midfield maestro. "I want to succeed like him. Who taught him that?" Ronaldinho once mused, according to GazetaExpress. In another instance, he remarked, "I want to pass like him. Who taught him how to do that?" Such words carry weight coming from a player of Ronaldinho’s caliber.
Paul Scholes, the object of Ronaldinho’s admiration, is regarded by many as one of the finest midfielders of his generation. His career at Manchester United reads like a roll call of English football’s greatest honors: 11 Premier League titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups, two Champions Leagues, the Intercontinental Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. Scholes donned the red jersey 718 times between 1993 and 2013, a testament to both his talent and his loyalty.
Scholes’ journey had its own twists. After initially retiring in 2011, he made a surprise comeback in January 2012, featuring in United’s FA Cup victory against Manchester City that very month. His on-field intelligence, vision, and uncanny knack for finding space made him a nightmare for opponents—and a joy for teammates.
Ronaldinho and Scholes faced off during some memorable European nights, when the Brazilian was dazzling at Barcelona and later at AC Milan. Their encounters were a clash of footballing philosophies: Ronaldinho’s samba-inspired flair versus Scholes’ understated brilliance. But, as Ronaldinho’s comments reveal, admiration often crossed the divide.
It’s not just Ronaldinho who has sung Scholes’ praises. The Englishman has received glowing endorsements from some of the game’s greatest minds. Spanish legend Xavi, himself a midfield maestro, once said, "In the last 15 to 20 years the best central midfielder I've seen – the most complete – is Scholes. I've spoken to Xabi Alonso many times about that." High praise, indeed, from a player who orchestrated Barcelona’s tiki-taka revolution.
French icon Zinedine Zidane echoed similar sentiments: "I have no doubt that Paul Scholes is still in a class of his own. He is almost untouchable at what he does. I never tire of watching him play." Coming from a Ballon d'Or winner and World Cup champion, such accolades speak volumes about Scholes’ influence on the pitch.
Current Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, who has seen and played alongside some of the best, once remarked, "Of everyone at Manchester United, I would choose Scholes - he is the best midfielder of his generation." That’s quite the endorsement from a man who built his managerial philosophy around midfield dominance.
Portugal’s Luis Figo, another legend of the game, admitted, "I get scared when I see Paul Scholes because you never see him often. On the pitch you can't catch him. Off the pitch, he disappears." Scholes’ elusive nature—both on and off the field—only added to his mystique.
Scholes’ international career, though not as trophy-laden as his club exploits, was still impressive. He netted 14 goals in 66 appearances for England between 1997 and 2004, often playing out of his favored central role to accommodate a star-studded midfield.
What is it about Scholes that inspired such reverence from his peers? Perhaps it’s his uncanny ability to dictate the tempo of a match, his laser-guided passes, or his knack for scoring crucial goals from distance. Maybe it’s his humility—Scholes was never one for the spotlight, preferring to let his football do the talking. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that even the most flamboyant talents, like Ronaldinho, recognized something special in the Englishman.
Ronaldinho’s admission is a reminder that football, for all its rivalries and competition, is also about mutual respect and inspiration. The Brazilian’s career was marked by joyous expression and technical brilliance, but he never shied away from acknowledging greatness in others. Scholes, with his quiet genius, was a player even the brightest stars aspired to emulate.
As football continues to evolve, these stories of respect across borders and styles keep the spirit of the game alive. Ronaldinho and Scholes may have hung up their boots, but their legacies—and the admiration they sparked in each other—live on in the hearts of fans and players alike.
With legends like these, the beautiful game remains as captivating as ever, reminding us that behind every rivalry lies a shared love for football’s artistry and craft.