Even Zidane couldn't believe it! Real Madrid legend's hilarious reaction to Ronaldo's 42 goals
Even Zinedine Zidane was left amazed by Cristiano Ronaldo's extraordinary performances! A remark attributed to the French legend about the Portuguese superstar's historic 2008 season has resurfaced, highlighting just how remarkable Ronaldo's goalscoring achievements were.
Details: On October 28, Madrid Xtra shared comments attributed to Zidane about Ronaldo's first Ballon d'Or-winning campaign. The Frenchman praised the Portuguese winger for becoming both English and European champion while scoring 42 goals. Zidane then jokingly compared the achievement to his own career, claiming that 42 goals was what he had managed throughout his playing days. The remark was delivered with laughter and was clearly intended as humorous praise.
Ronaldo's 2007/08 campaign remains one of the most impressive individual seasons in Manchester United's history. Under Sir Alex Ferguson, the Portuguese forward scored 42 goals across all competitions, including eight in the Champions League. He helped United win the Premier League and defeat Chelsea in the European final in Moscow.
The achievements earned Ronaldo the European Golden Shoe and his first Ballon d'Or in December 2008. He was just 23 years old when he finished ahead of Lionel Messi and Fernando Torres in the voting. Zidane, himself a Ballon d'Or winner in 1998, has repeatedly praised Ronaldo's extraordinary talent and mentality.
It's worth noting that Zidane scored far more than 42 goals during his professional career, making the remark an obvious joke rather than a factual comparison. The Frenchman later coached Ronaldo at Real Madrid, winning three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018. Their successful partnership became one of the defining stories of modern European football.
Reminder: The rise to the throne! Cristiano Ronaldo won his first Ballon d'Or in 2008.
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
