When Cristiano Ronaldo Left Ex Barcelona Star Gerard Pique in Awe With His ‘Beautiful’ Words: Video

• Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique was once the recipient of a heartfelt tribute from Cristiano Ronaldo
• The pair worked together for four years at Manchester United before heading onto a collision course in Spain
• Pique concluded his career last year while Ronaldo continues his journey in the world of football at the age of 38

Cristiano Ronaldo has often been accused of being self-centred and egoistic, with little to no regard for his colleagues and - by extension - his opponents.

This perception has persisted throughout his career, primarily stemming from his relentless drive to maintain his position at the forefront of global football.

In an illustrative example, former FIFA president, Sepp Blatter once characterised the Portuguese superstar as someone who consistently attracts attention to himself compared to his most famed rival.

"He [Lionel Messi] is a good man, he's very fast, he's not exuberant, he's playing well, he's dancing, he's a kind man, he's a good boy," Blatter said, as cited by Independent.

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When discussing Ronaldo, Blatter remarked:

"The other one, this is something else. The other one is like a commander on the field of play."

He proceeded to rise from his seat and humorously strolled across the stage. The former head of football's world governing body later apologised for his not-so-subtle jab at the current Al-Nassr captain, per Arab News.

Ronaldo stuns Pique with 'beautiful' words

Despite Ronaldo's well-documented intense competitiveness, his compassionate and humanitarian side has often been overshadowed.

In a rare instance showcasing his more subdued demeanour, the 38-year-old impressed former Manchester United teammate, Gerard Pique.

During the 2020 Globe Soccer Awards, Ronaldo paid tribute to the defender, with whom he frequently clashed on opposite sides of the El Clasico divide.

The Portuguese star emphasised his amicable relationship with Pique, underlining the absence of any animosity between them.

Furthermore, he reiterated that despite his age (36 at the time), his drive for success remained unwavering.

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Pique includes Ronaldo in 'Dream Team'

In a reciprocal gesture, Sports Brief reported on Pique including Ronaldo in his five-a-side team along with other notable football names.

Having previously shared the field together before leaving for Spain, the defender established himself as a legend in the annals of Barcelona.

Despite any past strains in their relationship, Pique clearly maintains a deep admiration for Ronaldo's remarkable sporting achievements.