Former England manager Fabio Capello delivered a brutally humorous tease about Ronaldo's weight during a surprise reunion with the Brazilian football icon. The pair, who previously worked together at Real Madrid, connected via video chat on Tuesday evening ahead of Inter Milan's Champions League fixture against Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt.
A Playful Yet Pointed Question
Upon seeing Ronaldo, Capello immediately fired off a blunt inquiry: "How much do you weigh now?" This prompted laughter from the 49-year-old former striker, who retorted, "Still with the weight? No more!" Despite the light-hearted jab, Capello was quick to compliment Ronaldo's exceptional abilities on the pitch.
High Praise Amidst Criticism
Capello described Ronaldo as "the most talented player I ever worked with," but he also noted that the forward's lifestyle "left rather a lot to be desired." This echoes comments Capello made last year, where he recalled Ronaldo's partying habits and refusal to slim down from around 207 pounds, ultimately leading to his departure from Real Madrid.
"Ronaldo was the best player I ever coached. But he loved to party every night — he was wild," Capello stated. "At one point, I told the president we had to let him go. There was no way forward. So we did. But I'll say it again: he was the best I've ever coached."
Ronaldo's Illustrious Career
Despite the off-field controversies, Ronaldo's footballing prowess is undeniable. During his time at Real Madrid, he netted 104 goals in 177 appearances, contributing to a career that included successful stints at PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona, Inter Milan, and AC Milan. Knee injuries plagued his later years, but he concluded his professional journey with Brazilian side Corinthians in 2011.
On the international stage, Ronaldo earned 99 caps for Brazil, scoring 62 goals and helping secure two World Cup titles. His performances also earned him two Ballon d'Or awards, cementing his legacy as one of the sport's greats.
Capello's Managerial Journey
Fabio Capello, a seven-time Serie A winner, has managed top clubs including AC Milan, Real Madrid, Roma, and Juventus. He took the helm of the England national team in 2007 and later coached Russia and Chinese side Jiangsu Suning. His reunion with Ronaldo highlights a complex relationship marked by admiration and frustration.
This encounter underscores the enduring bond between player and manager, blending nostalgia with candid reflections on talent and discipline in professional football.
