Ruud van Nistelrooy reveals Ronaldo Nazário as best teammate, snubs Cristiano and Beckham

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has revealed that Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazário is the greatest player he ever played alongside, surprisingly placing him ahead of teammates like Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham.

Van Nistelrooy, currently managing Premier League side Leicester City after briefly coaching Manchester United, recently recalled his playing days during a Q&A session at Oxford Union. The Dutch forward, considered one of Europe's most lethal goalscorers in his prime, didn't hesitate when asked about his ideal teammate.

"Someone once asked me who was the best player I ever played with. It's Ronaldo—the Brazilian," Van Nistelrooy declared. He further explained his admiration, saying, "For Ronaldo, the incredible solo goal I scored against Fulham—which for me was exceptional—was just his standard. His natural talent was simply far beyond anyone else I played with."

Van Nistelrooy again praised Ronaldo’s skills during an appearance on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast, Vibe With FIVE, highlighting how the Brazilian amazed him even during training sessions at Real Madrid.

"When I joined Real Madrid, Ronaldo—El Fenómeno—was there. Despite his injuries and issues with weight, during training games like 4 vs. 4 or 6 vs. 6, I'd think: 'If you're doing this now, what must you have been like at your peak?' His ability was the best I’ve ever seen," Van Nistelrooy recalled.

The Dutchman also shared a memorable conversation between Ronaldo and Italian forward Antonio Cassano, who at the time was also part of Real Madrid's star-studded lineup.

"Cassano always told Ronaldo, 'If you hadn't had injuries or had lived a more professional lifestyle, you would’ve won the Ballon d'Or seven or eight times,' and I completely agree. He won everything possible, including the World Cup, but without those setbacks, it’s unimaginable what he might have achieved," Van Nistelrooy concluded.