Cafu names Ronaldinho among four greatest players in football history, alongside Pelé, Maradona and Messi

Brazilian football legend Cafu has proposed expanding the "greatest of all time" debate from three to four players, arguing that Ronaldinho deserves a place alongside Pelé, Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. In an interview with Spanish newspaper El Mundo, the former AC Milan and Roma right-back said these four players transcended mere statistics to embody the "art" of football.

Cafu highlighted their extraordinary ability to control the ball with seemingly effortless grace, turning matches into artistic performances. "They made history, became world champions, and left their mark. And they played with astonishing lightness," Cafu said. "They controlled the ball, didn't force dribbles or shots, scored naturally. Their play was art." He added: "I love the art of football. Maradona is that art itself. So are Messi, Pelé and Ronaldinho. Watching them play is truly joyful."

When asked directly whether Ronaldinho belongs on the same pedestal as Messi, Maradona and Pelé, Cafu affirmed: "The best players are four: two Brazilians, two Argentines. In the eras I have witnessed, they are the ones who still decide matches." He attributed their longevity and impact not only to technical skill but to psychological resilience and character. Cafu noted that none of the four ever engaged in on-field fights; instead they responded to hard tackles by getting up, laughing and continuing to play. "There is only one way to humiliate an opponent: dribble past them and score a goal. That is what we most want to see."

Cafu also discussed the current state of the Brazilian national team under coach Carlo Ancelotti, whom he played under at Milan for five years. He praised Ancelotti's ability to rebuild teamwork and style, but stressed that time is short for players to absorb tactical instructions. "For the first time in Brazil's history, a coach is more talked about than the players. That shows how important Ancelotti is now."

On Neymar, Cafu acknowledged his talent as a "golden boy" but questioned whether he truly understands the weight of being world champion. "Neymar is a genius, but if he is willing to sacrifice much, train hard and dedicate himself wholeheartedly... if he understands what it means to be a world champion, then the story will be different. Winning the Copa Libertadores or Champions League is one thing. Being a world champion means representing your country, not your club. He still has not fully understood that burden."