Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho, renowned for his dazzling skills and memorable stint at Barcelona, unveiled his all-time best British XI in 2015, a selection that sparked considerable discussion among fans and pundits. The team, shared via Metro, features a blend of Premier League legends, with a notable emphasis on Manchester United players.
Ronaldinho’s formidable lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Joe Hart
- Defenders: Gary Neville, John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, Ashley Cole
- Midfielders: Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes, Frank Lampard, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs
- Forward: Wayne Rooney
The selection offers a glimpse into the players who left a significant impression on the two-time FIFA World Player of the Year. Ronaldinho himself faced British opposition frequently during his illustrious career, notably playing against Chelsea and Celtic six times each – more than any other British club.
Manchester United’s strong presence
A striking feature of Ronaldinho’s XI is the heavy representation from Manchester United. Six players from the Old Trafford club made the cut, as reported by Metro. This includes stalwarts like Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand, who enjoyed multiple title successes with the club, alongside David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, and Wayne Rooney.
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Ryan Giggs stands out as the sole non-English player in the lineup, representing Wales. The winger is celebrated as the Premier League’s all-time leading assist provider, a testament to his longevity and creative prowess. Upfront, Wayne Rooney, Manchester United’s all-time leading goalscorer and once England’s top scorer, leads the line. Only Alan Shearer and Harry Kane have surpassed Rooney’s Premier League goal tally.
Notable inclusions and omissions
The midfield is packed with talent, featuring three players often debated as England’s greatest midfielders: Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes, and Frank Lampard. Ronaldinho envisioned Lampard in a more attacking midfield role, leveraging his goalscoring ability. David Beckham, known globally for his iconic free-kicks, also takes his place in the midfield. On the defensive end, John Terry, who captained Chelsea through their most successful period, forms a strong partnership with Rio Ferdinand. Ashley Cole, widely regarded as the Premier League’s greatest left-back from his time at Arsenal and Chelsea, completes the backline.
While the team is brimming with quality, some notable omissions include prolific striker Alan Shearer and Welsh superstar Gareth Bale. Joe Hart’s inclusion as goalkeeper, a former Manchester City player, was also a point of interest given his career trajectory following 2015.
Sources: metro.co.uk
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