Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has sparked debate by explaining why he believes former Real Madrid teammate Gareth Bale was a more complete player than Cristiano Ronaldo. The Brazilian played alongside both superstars at the Santiago Bernabeu, winning multiple La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles.
Casemiro's Comparison
While acknowledging that Ronaldo, Real Madrid's all-time top scorer with 450 goals, is in a league of his own, Casemiro highlighted Bale's all-around abilities. "Cristiano scores minimum 15 goals every season, but Bale is attack, defend, heads, scores," Casemiro said on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast. "Cristiano is the best. He's in another world. Take Cristiano out of the conversation. But for me, Bale is the best, more complete player. Everything he does is very good, very quick, too strong. For me, Bale is unbelievable."
Ronaldo's Ambition
Casemiro also praised Ronaldo's relentless drive. "Ambition, every game. He needs to score goals. His ambition is unbelievable. For me, it's the most admiration for him. I love him because he gave me many goals and trophies."
Bale's Legacy
Bale spent nine seasons at Real Madrid after his then-world-record £85 million move from Tottenham Hotspur in 2013. He scored 106 goals in 258 appearances, including a brace in the 2018 Champions League final against Liverpool.
Facing Messi
Casemiro also reflected on facing Lionel Messi. "Every time we played, I didn't talk much. I didn't push him because I didn't want to upset him. I'd tackle him and then say, 'I'm sorry!' You can't stop him; it's impossible." He recalled how Messi could single-handedly win matches, citing a Barcelona game against Sevilla where Messi came off the bench to score two goals in 18 minutes.
World Cup and Neymar
Casemiro is set to represent Brazil at the upcoming World Cup. He commented on Neymar's inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti's provisional squad, saying, "Yes, but you don't play him every game. Him playing every game, for me, it's not perfect. When the game isn't closed, when it's 0-0, you need a special goal, a special assist, then it's for him. He changes the game and we don't have this player at the moment. So it's my opinion, but it's up to Ancelotti."
