Ronaldinho and Ronaldo both revealed that AC Milan icon Paolo Maldini was the toughest opponent they crossed paths with in their illustrious playing careers.
The Brazilian legends, who both captured major silverware for club and country, are widely revered as two of the best footballers of all time.
Ronaldinho, 40, insisted that he was blown away by how Maldini "made it all look effortless."
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The Ballon d'Or winner told football magazine FourFourTwo: "It has to be [Paolo] Maldini. Too many skills.
"It is impossible not to be amazed by how he made it all look effortless, especially when you get to play with him."
Ronaldo, 43, singled out the Italian legend as the most formidable defender he played against in his career.
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However, the two-time Ballon d'Or winner also praised the likes of Fabio Cannavaro, Alessandro Nesta and Pietro Vierchowod.
"Toughest defender I've faced in my career? Paolo Maldini would be the toughest ever," Ronaldo told Italian newspaper Il Messaggero.
"Among other Italian defenders, I would say Cannavaro, Nesta and Vierchowod, all of which were very strong."
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Former Real Madrid and Inter Milan striker Ronaldo added that it was an "honour" to play against Roma icon Francesco Totti.
"Playing against Totti was an honour," the two-time World Cup winner said.
"He is a true champion and a good person. We often met during the filming of commercials. I am proud to be among his generation."
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Maldini, 52, spent his entire playing career at Milan and captured seven Serie A titles and won five European Cups/Champions Leagues with the Italian club.
The Italian legend, who is widely regarded as one of the best defenders of all time, announced his retirement from football in 2009.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Ronaldinho, Paolo Maldini, Football, Ronaldo