Carlo Ancelotti backs Cristiano Ronaldo's GOAT claim over Lionel Messi as Real Madrid pay special tribute to CR7 on his 40th birthday

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United superstar recently stated that he sees himself as the most complete footballer to have ever played the game. Speaking to La Sexta, Ronaldo argued that his all-round skill set makes him superior to not just Lionel Messi, but also Pele and Diego Maradona.

“I think I'm the most complete player there has ever been," he insisted. "That's my opinion. It could be a question of taste but I think it's me. I do everything in football. I head well, I take set pieces well, I shoot well with my left foot, I'm fast, I'm strong, I jump.

“Taste is one thing, saying this, that or that, whether you prefer Messi, Pele or Maradona, I hear it and I respect it but to say that Cristiano isn't complete is a lie. I'm the most complete. I don't see anyone better than me and I tell you that with all my heart.”

Ancelotti, who coached Ronaldo during his first spell in charge at Real Madrid, did not hesitate to endorse the Portuguese star’s self-assessment. When reflecting on Ronaldo’s impact at the Santiago Bernabeu, Ancelotti credited him for shaping an entire era at the club.

"Cristiano has left his mark on an era, he is leaving his mark on an era," the Real boss told reporters. "For me, he has been the best. Also because he has helped me a lot, with the goals he has scored, to remain calm on the Real Madrid bench."

Ronaldo remains Madrid’s all-time leading scorer, having netted an astonishing 451 goals and provided 131 assists in 438 appearances. As the Portuguese forward turned 40 on Wednesday, Real Madrid made sure to honour their former talisman with a special message on social media.

They wrote: "🎁 Dear Cristiano, from Real Madrid, we want to send you our warmest wishes on your 40th birthday. Every Madridista is proud of the legend that you are and what you represent for our history. Have a great day with your family and loved ones."

The tribute arrived shortly after Ronaldo reminisced about his unforgettable years in Spain, admitting that he still holds a strong emotional connection to Madrid that could lead him back to the club after he hangs up his boots.

“My period at Real Madrid is the happiest for me in terms of football,” he added to La Sexta. "Maybe after ending my career, something can happen."

As Ronaldo celebrates his milestone birthday, his impact on football remains undeniable. With five Ballons d’Or, five Champions League trophies, and a legacy of defining moments, he is one of the greatest players to ever step onto a football pitch. Ronaldo remains determined to reach 1,000 career goals before retiring amid another prolific season in the Saudi Pro League at Al-Nassr, and continues to serve as Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, with 135 international goals in 217 appearances.