Who said life wasn't ironic? Amidst scandal and violence, Italy overtook Brazil in the controversial FIFA rankings in the number one spot ending in the process Brazil's outstanding 55-month reign. A Brazilian - Kaka - is now an Italian citizen and Ronaldo - one of the greatest strikers to ever play the game - returns to Serie A.
In the quiet Renaissance town of Siena, former Real Madrid striker Ronaldo conducted his own rebirth. Il Fenomeno scored twice and set up another as he helped pace AC Milan to a 4-3 thrilling victory over Siena this weekend. The Rossoneri (red and black) literally put away the feisty Tuscans on the last play of the game scoring off a corner kick.
While Ronaldo has clearly lost a step, his footwork remains lethal. This is a striker, when all is added up, that still possesses sharp and exquisite skills. He had been unfairly characterized by some as being fat and out of game shape. Sitting on the bench while battling injuries tends to do that.
His prowess did not elude Siena midfielder Simone Vergassola. "Perhaps he's not as devastating as he was years ago, but he is always decisive and one on one he's invincible."
Indeed, all game long Ronaldo was causing problems for the Sienese defense.
It's a new beginning for Ronaldo as he returns to Italy. Originally in the nerazzuri (black and blue) stripes of Internazionale, Milan is a city prepared to fully embrace his return. AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti was clear from the start in thinking that Ronaldo can still achieve great things.
During the 1950s, AC Milan were lead by three Swedes - the legendary Gunnar Nordhal, Nils Liedholm and Gunnar Gren. Together they were known as the Gre-No-li line. Incidentally, if I ever had a son I would name him Gunnar. Can't get a more masculine name than that. In the late 1980s and early to mid 1990s three splendid Dutchmen in Marco Van Basten, Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard joined an unbreakable back line of Alessandro Costacurta, Paolo Maldini and Franco Baresi to create one of the greatest soccer teams ever.
Article comments
1 - Ash
excellent article ronaldo eternal number one legend phenomenon kingggg well doneeeeee!!!!!
2 - alessandro nicolo
Something tells me Ash is a big Ronaldo fan.
3 - raymond
Ronaldo is the greatest player the world has ever had,luck has not been on his side,but he remains the best.
He is gifted and a super finisher.
4 - alessandro Nicolo
Raymond, you're not alone. My friend certainly thinks so. Personally, as great as he is I'm not so sure. Di Stefano, Maradona and Pele (among others) still all have the inside track.