Cristiano Ronaldo’s Greatest XI: The Best Teammates of His Career

August 2, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Cristiano Ronaldo has played alongside countless world-class talents throughout his legendary career. From Manchester United to Real Madrid and Juventus, he has shared the pitch with some of football’s finest. Here’s a look at the 11 greatest players he’s ever teamed up with.

Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas

Photo: Marcos Mesa Sam Wordley / Shutterstock.com

One of the best goalkeepers in football history, Casillas and Ronaldo won numerous titles together at Real Madrid. Known for his leadership and composure, Casillas was a rock between the posts during their six-year partnership.

Right Back: Sergio Ramos

Ramos started as a right back before becoming one of the greatest central defenders of his generation. His winning mentality and clutch performances made him an indispensable teammate for Ronaldo at Madrid.

Center Back: Rio Ferdinand

Ferdinand played a key role in Ronaldo’s early development at Manchester United. Calm under pressure and tactically sharp, he anchored the defense during the club’s dominant period in the mid-2000s.

Center Back: Giorgio Chiellini

Chiellini brought grit and defensive brilliance to Juventus. Though their time together didn’t yield a Champions League title, the Italian defender’s experience and toughness left a strong impression on Ronaldo.

Left Back: Marcelo

Marcelo and Ronaldo shared an incredible connection on the left flank. The Brazilian full-back’s flair and overlapping runs helped bring out the best in Ronaldo during Real Madrid’s most dominant years.

Midfielder: Toni Kroos

Kroos joined Real Madrid in 2014 and quickly became Ronaldo’s ideal midfield partner. His pinpoint passing and calm presence helped the team win three consecutive Champions League titles.

Midfielder: Luka Modric

Luka Modrić — Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

Modric combined vision, creativity, and work rate in midfield. He supported Ronaldo throughout many of Real Madrid’s most successful campaigns and went on to win the Ballon d’Or in 2018.

Midfielder: Paul Scholes

At Manchester United, Scholes was a midfield maestro who mentored a young Ronaldo. His unmatched passing range and football IQ were key to United’s domestic and European triumphs.

Right Wing: Gareth Bale

Bale brought speed, power, and spectacular goals to the Madrid attack. Alongside Ronaldo, he formed a devastating wing duo that delivered multiple Champions League trophies for Los Blancos.

Striker: Karim Benzema

Benzema was the perfect partner for Ronaldo—unselfish, intelligent, and always in sync. He played a vital supporting role during Ronaldo’s time in Spain, later stepping up as the team’s main star.

Left Wing: Wayne Rooney

Rooney and Ronaldo formed a lethal partnership at Manchester United. Though their off-pitch relationship had ups and downs, their on-field chemistry was undeniable and crucial to United’s success.