New Delhi, July 9 (IANS) Delhi Dynamos’ newly-appointed Brazilian player-manager Roberto Carlos on Thursday acknowledged the brilliance of leading world footballing duo of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo but rated compatriot Neymar as presently the best exponent of the “beautiful game”.
The former Real Madrid star defender said both Messi and Ronaldo have their individual attributes to marvel on but Neymar has the potential to overtake the duo in the coming days. Carlos here signed a one-year contract with Dynamos to become their marquee manager-cum-player for the second edition of the Indian Super league (ISL).
“Messi and Ronaldo are both great players. But for me, Neymar is the best. I believe soon he will become the best. He is very talented and has a bright future,” the left-back said.
The 42-year-old also said that Messi is at present “a little ahead of Cristiano” because of the contrast in the playing styles of their respective Spanish clubs — FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.
“Barcelona plays around Messi. Their game is revolved around Messi to get the best out of him. But in case of Real Madrid, it is different. They don’t only concentrate on Cristiano with several very good players like Karim Benzema, Luka Modrid, Marcelo, etc. contributing. But Cristiano is still a top player.”
The 2002 World Cup winner also supported illustrious compatriot and FC Goa coach Zico’s intention of contesting for the FIFA presidential elections, saying he is the “ideal” candidate for the post.
Zico had earlier voiced his intention of running for world football’s governing body’s top post with incumbent Swiss Sepp Blatter expected to step down in January next year when the elections are likely to be held.
Being one of the foremost exponents of ferocious swerving free-kicks has enabled Carlos to score several memorable goals throughout his distinguished career. When asked to pick his most famous goal he insisted that all his goals were memorable but said the free-kick goal against France in 1997 occupies a special place in his heart.
“All my goals are memorable — the goals I scored for Brazil against Argentina, goals for my club Real Madrid against Barcelona, Tenerife. But my most memorable goal is against France in 1997,” Carlos, fondly called the “bullet man” for his booming long range shots, stated.