Who is the legend that was on par with Messi and Maradona? Fabio Capello has the answer

Fabio Capello, former manager of several top clubs in Europe, has surprised everyone with his statements about Ronaldo Nazario. In a recent interview with the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, Capello explained the reason why he decided to part ways with one of the most talented players in football history. According to the Italian manager, the main issue was Ronaldo's lack of commitment to his health and lifestyle.

RONALDO'S TALENT AND LOST POTENTIAL

Capello did not hold back in praising Ronaldo, highlighting the immense talent the Brazilian showed throughout his career. "He was the best player I ever managed," Capello said, acknowledging the class and skill of the forward. However, what surprised many was the reason behind his departure from the team. According to Capello, Ronaldo was unwilling to make the necessary sacrifices to stay in top physical shape. "He was overweight, he didn’t want to lose weight, and he loved the good life too much," the former manager explained.

THE PROBLEM HE CREATED IN THE DRESSING ROOM

The problem was not just physical. Capello revealed that Ronaldo's attitude towards his lifestyle also affected the other players in the dressing room. "The worst part wasn't that, it was that he dragged his lifestyle to the teammates and created an even bigger problem for me," Capello added. Ronaldo's lack of discipline did not only affect his own performance, but it also began to have a negative impact on the team's morale. In such a competitive environment as elite football, discipline and commitment are crucial to maintaining group cohesion.

CAPELLO'S FINAL DECISION: "OUT"

Despite Ronaldo's immense talent, Capello did not hesitate to make a tough decision. "I gave him the option to lose weight and behave, he didn’t want to, so he was out. No more," Capello said. For the Italian coach, there were no excuses when it came to discipline. Although Capello acknowledged that Ronaldo had the potential to be the best in history, he also pointed out that by not taking care of himself or following the coach’s advice, Ronaldo missed the opportunity to reach that level.

RONALDO'S LEGACY: THE NUMBER ONE OF ALL TIME?

Despite the disappointment Capello felt regarding Ronaldo's attitude, he was clear in his admiration for the Brazilian. "Ronaldo, without the injuries and with proper care, would have been the number one in history, at the level of Messi and Maradona," Capello commented. For the manager, injuries and the lack of discipline prevented Ronaldo from reaching his full potential. However, his talent was such that, according to Capello, he could have been on the same level as the footballing legends.

THE HUMAN SIDE OF FOOTBALLERS

Capello also reflected on the behaviour of certain footballers, acknowledging that some have a mindset more focused on enjoying life outside the field than being strict with their physical preparation. "There are footballers like that," Capello explained, referring to the reality of some players who fail to reach their full potential because of their attitudes off the pitch.

In conclusion, Capello's comments on Ronaldo are not just an analysis of the forward's talent and career, but also a reflection on the importance of discipline in professional football. Ronaldo, with his incredible ability, could have been considered the greatest of all time if he had made different decisions regarding his personal life and dedication to the sport.