Forgetfulness is human nature, especially when it comes to good deeds. For a long time, Cristiano Ronaldo has carried the weight of Portuguese expectations on his back and with aplomb. The soccer icon even led his country to their first-ever major trophy, Euro 2016. However, since World Cup 2022, Ronaldo has not been the same phenomenon that he was previously. As such, his countryman Joao Cancelo, believes the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner does not even make the top 3 best players in the world now! Who makes Cancelo’s list, let’s find out below.

In an interview with Abola, Cancelo has lifted the lid on the players that he considers the best. First on his list is French superstar Kylian Mbappe. The Barcelona defender said, “I always think he’s (Kylian Mbappe) a player to take into account. At the moment it is top 3 in the world” Cancelo has had his share of battles against the PSG during his time at Manchester City. Notably, with Barcelona having drawn the French Champions in the round of 16 UCL tie, the pair are set to face off once again.

The full-back also rates some of his colleagues from Manchester City as some of the top players in soccer today. “I‘m a fan of Bernardo Silva. I also included Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri,” Cancelo said when asked about who are the other two. The elephant in the room is Lionel Messi and more so Cristiano Ronaldo’s emission.

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It is rather interesting why Cancelo avoided mentioning his Portuguese comrade. Could it be due to him playing in Saudi? Well, his age might be the issue per Cancelo.

Cristiano Ronaldo is past his ‘peak’ per Cancelo

In a recent interview, the full-back gave his thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo’s importance to the national team. Cancelo said, “He is an important player and spent 15 years competing with Messi for the Ballon d’Or, but the peak of a footballer’s career is between the ages of 25 and 32. He is an important player for us, but the national team does not depend entirely on him.”

At 39 years of age, Cristiano Ronaldo is undoubtedly in the twilight of his career. Yet, remarkably, he still boasts of some incredible numbers. For instance, last year, Cr7 scored 9 goals in 11 games for the national side. He is also the top goalscorer for Al Nassr. But, all good things come to an end and it is inevitable the Portugal and Al Nassr will have to get used to playing without their talisman on the pitch sooner than later.

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Cristiano Ronaldo Deemed ‘Extremely Important’ For Portugal Despite Joao Cancelo’s ‘Way Past His Prime’ Claim