Rio Ferdinand has always backed his former mate Cristiano Ronaldo. In a recent interview, the former Man United defender spoke about one of the greatest free-kick goals ever in history. It was a 40-yard screamer from CR7 against Premier League rivals Arsenal in the 2008 Champions League semi-final. While most fans are familiar with this goal, Rio went on to reveal an interesting backdrop incident involving a feisty fan, who was left with his ‘head in his hands’.

In his show Vibe with Five, Ferdinand recalled the time when Manchester United used to silence the Emirates stadium. He said, “We used to silence that crowd man. Remember Ronaldo’s rocket – silence. Before that game, you know, some of your fans were feisty, before that game giving us in the warm-up so much gip.” Per Ferdinand, this resulted in Ronaldo getting a little distracted. One particular fan stood out as per the former English defender.

Ferdinand explained, “I remember, I said to one of their fans, ‘Shut up! Whatever at Arsenal – at the Emirates. He was like getting a bit rowdy and then Ronaldo scored that goal man.” Ronaldo’s wonder strike resulted in Alex Ferguson’s leading the Gunners 2-0. This led to a huge celebration but Ferdinand did not celebrate with his teammates. As per Rio, “I ran over to that fan from the warmup nowhere near where we celebrating and just give him some. Yeah, his head was in his hands. Yeah, he was gone!”

CR7 went on to score another goal to win the match 3-1 for the Red Devils. This led to United reaching the finals for the second consecutive time where they were defeated by Pep Gauardiola’s famed Barcelona side. Ronaldo exited for Real Madrid soon and that was the last match Rio Ferdinand played with the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner. Despite his friendship and success on the pitch with CR7, Rio Ferdinand has surprisingly rated another player above Cristiano Ronaldo. And it is not about Lionel Messi!

Ferdinand names player who could have had more Ballon d’Ors than Cristiano Ronaldo

Rio Ferdinand has named Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario as a player who had the potential to surpass Cristiano Ronaldo. He said via Rio Ferdinand Presents Five, “If he doesn’t get injured, he probably gets six (Ballon d’Or).” R9 had faced a Patella Tendon rupture in 1999 which effectively ruled him out until late 2001. However, he did manage to come back from the injury albeit losing considerable speed and physicality. However, his match against Man United reminded everyone of his otherworldly talent.

Read More: Despite $220 Million Contract With Saudi League, Cristiano Ronaldo Jokingly Approached by Boxing Promoter to Join Arsenal

April 23, 2003, was the day when Old Trafford witnessed one of the greatest individual performances in the sport. R9 scored a stunning hat trick and per Rio Ferdinand, is the only player that made him go s**t, the night before. Even though United won the game 4-3, Real Madrid managed to knock them out of the UCL.

Do you agree with Rio Ferdinand here? Tell us below.

WATCH THIS STORY: Meet the Legendary Tennis Player Who is 3x Richer than Cristiano Ronaldo