Cristiano Ronaldo has heralded his former Manchester United teammate Wayne Rooney as the Premier League’s best player, and believes his old team will once again win the league next year.
Following his multi-million pound move to Real Madrid, Ronaldo believes the English forward will emerge from his shadow to cement himself as one of the world’s best players, spearheading United to their fourth consecutive title.
Ronaldo told Shortlist magazine: “It is a league (Premier League) of amazing talent, but for me the stand-out player is Wayne Rooney.”
“His ability is fantastic, but his attitude when he plays football is that he is willing to die for the team.”
“He gives everything, and it was a great privilege to play with him.”
Ronaldo admitted his absence would be missed, but he, like players before him, would be replaced by world class talent.
“I am one-off, but that does not mean Manchester United will not buy world-class players.”
“Sir Alex will spend well on big names, I’m sure. He has lost big players before, but has gone on to even more success…Not many players in the world could turn down Manchester United, and I fully expect big names to arrive this summer.”
“For me they will still win the Premier League next year, and I hope for a long time to come.”