Rivaldo’s All-Time Greatest XI: The Legend’s Unforgettable Picks and Surprising Omissions

In an era of footballing giants like Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, and George Best, Rivaldo remains one of the most influential and revered wingers to have ever graced the pitch. Known for his lethal combination of flair, technique, and vision, Rivaldo reached the peak of his powers playing for clubs such as Barcelona and Olympiacos. As a World Cup winner and one of the most gifted footballers in history, his legacy is firmly secured in the annals of football.

In 2015, Rivaldo named his all-time greatest XI in an interview with Goal, and surprisingly, Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t make the cut. This decision raised eyebrows, as Ronaldo has long been considered one of the best players of all time. Notably, Pele also didn’t make the list, which only added to the intrigue of Rivaldo’s selections.

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Goalkeeper – Dida: Brazil’s Fearsome Wall

Dida, a legendary Brazilian goalkeeper, is remembered as one of the most difficult shot-stoppers to breach during his prime. With his commanding presence between the posts, he helped Brazil secure the 2002 World Cup and clinched multiple Champions League titles with AC Milan. Rivaldo, having played alongside Dida, noted that the keeper’s leadership and ability to read the game made him an invaluable asset. Dida’s unique approach to goalkeeping set a new standard for Brazilian keepers and left an indelible mark on the game.

Throughout his career, Dida was known for his consistency and composure under pressure, qualities that earned him admiration from teammates like Rivaldo. His reflexes, shot-stopping abilities, and calm demeanor allowed him to perform in some of football’s most intense environments, making him a cornerstone of Brazil’s success during the 2000s.

Right Back – Cafu: A Tireless Leader

Cafu, regarded as one of the best right-backs in football history, had a career defined by stamina, leadership, and professionalism. Rivaldo, who shared a pitch with Cafu during Brazil’s World Cup triumph, described his compatriot as not only an excellent footballer but also a player who led by example. Cafu’s resilience and work ethic allowed him to perform at the highest level well into his 30s, making him a fixture in both Brazil’s and AC Milan’s defense.

As Brazil’s most-capped player, Cafu’s achievements speak volumes about his quality and consistency. His seamless integration into AC Milan’s defensive structure helped the club win multiple league titles and the coveted Champions League. Cafu’s presence on the right flank allowed Brazil to dominate on the world stage, as he was crucial to both defensive solidity and attacking thrust.

Centre Back – Carles Puyol: The Ultimate Defender

Carles Puyol, though not the tallest centre-back, was perhaps the most tenacious. Known for his fearless defending and ability to lead by example, Puyol embodied the spirit of Barcelona during their golden era. Rivaldo, who played alongside Puyol at Barcelona, praised him for his leadership and defensive acumen. Despite not being the tallest or fastest defender, Puyol’s tactical intelligence and ability to organize the defense were unmatched.

A true warrior on the field, Puyol was never afraid to put his body on the line for his team. His fierce competitive nature and commitment to Barcelona’s cause made him an icon at the club. His partnership with other defensive greats like Gerard Piqué solidified Barcelona’s dominance in both domestic and international competitions.

Centre Back – Paolo Maldini: The Elegant Defender

Paolo Maldini is often hailed as the epitome of defensive elegance, a player whose calm and composed style made defending look effortless. Rivaldo, who experienced the Milan defense firsthand, admired Maldini’s ability to read the game and his tactical mastery. Even as Maldini entered his 30s, he continued to be an essential part of AC Milan’s defensive line, contributing to their success in Europe and Italy.

What set Maldini apart from many of his contemporaries was his longevity and ability to adapt his game to the changing demands of football. His leadership at the back, coupled with his unmatched ability to anticipate the opposition’s moves, made him one of the greatest defenders to ever play the game. Rivaldo’s respect for Maldini’s professionalism and intelligence was evident, and the two shared a mutual admiration for each other’s footballing brilliance.

Left Back – Roberto Carlos: A Full-Back Like No Other

Roberto Carlos was not only one of the best left-backs of his generation, but he was also an attacking force in his own right. Renowned for his blistering pace, exceptional dribbling, and, of course, his iconic free-kicks, Carlos was an integral part of Brazil’s success. Rivaldo described his fellow Brazilian as a perfect blend of defensive and attacking capabilities, someone who could not only halt opposition attacks but also create opportunities at the other end.

Carlos’ dynamic playing style made him a crucial part of the Brazilian national team during their World Cup-winning campaigns, and his time at Real Madrid only added to his reputation. His ability to influence matches from the left-back position reshaped the way full-backs were perceived in world football, and his contributions to both club and country were unmatched.

Midfield – Luis Figo: A Winger’s Nightmare

Luis Figo was known for his dribbling, vision, and the ability to wreak havoc on opposing defenses. Rivaldo, who faced Figo on the field, recognized the Portuguese star’s skill in one-on-one situations. Figo’s quick footwork and ability to beat defenders made him a constant threat, and he played a pivotal role in both Barcelona’s and Real Madrid’s success during his career.

Figo’s controversial switch between the two clubs only added to his mystique, but it did little to detract from his brilliance on the field. Whether providing assists or scoring goals, Figo’s contributions were crucial to his team’s triumphs. Rivaldo, having faced him in Spain, could attest to Figo’s status as a defender’s nightmare, a player who could change the course of a match with a single run or pass.

Midfield – Zinedine Zidane: The Maestro

Zinedine Zidane, one of the most gifted playmakers in history, left a lasting impression on everyone who watched him play. Rivaldo, who faced Zidane on numerous occasions, praised the Frenchman for his ability to dictate the tempo of a match. Zidane’s elegance on the ball, his vision, and his knack for performing in the most crucial moments made him a legend of the game.

Zidane’s performances at the 1998 World Cup, where he led France to victory, and his contributions to Real Madrid’s success cemented his place among football’s greats. Rivaldo’s respect for Zidane was evident, and the two shared a mutual admiration for each other’s footballing abilities, having faced off in both club and international football.

Midfield – Ronaldinho: A Footballing Magician

Few players have brought as much joy to football fans around the world as Ronaldinho. Known for his dazzling dribbling skills, flair, and infectious smile, Ronaldinho had the ability to make the impossible look easy. Rivaldo, who played alongside Ronaldinho for Brazil, described his compatriot as a true magician on the field, someone who could unlock any defense with his creativity and vision.

Ronaldinho’s time at Barcelona was marked by incredible performances, winning numerous individual awards, including the 2005 Ballon d’Or. His impact on the game, both with his mesmerizing skill and his joyful playing style, left an indelible mark on football history. Rivaldo’s admiration for Ronaldinho was clear, as the two helped Brazil lift the 2002 World Cup, further solidifying their places as two of the most gifted players to ever play the game.

Striker – Lionel Messi: The GOAT

Rivaldo’s inclusion of Lionel Messi in his all-time XI reflects the immense respect he holds for the Argentine’s extraordinary footballing abilities. Rivaldo, who has witnessed many of Messi’s milestones, believes that the Barcelona legend is a true symbol of footballing greatness. From a promising youth player in La Masia to a global icon with numerous Ballon d’Or awards, Messi’s journey is one of unrivaled success. His ability to consistently deliver on the world’s biggest stages, season after season, cements his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

What stands out most to Rivaldo is Messi’s incredible consistency and dedication to excellence. Despite immense pressure, Messi has been able to perform at the highest level year in and year out. Rivaldo, who played with some of the best talents in the game, acknowledges that Messi’s brilliance is not just technical, but also a product of his mentality and drive. He foresaw Messi’s rise to greatness and, as such, his inclusion in any all-time XI feels inevitable.

Striker – Ronaldo Nazario

When Rivaldo speaks of Ronaldo Nazario, or “R9,” it’s clear that he considers the Brazilian striker as one of the best he has ever played with. Their partnership on the field was nothing short of explosive, with Ronaldo’s raw talent and finishing prowess complementing Rivaldo’s vision and technique. Rivaldo has often mentioned that Ronaldo was the most complete striker he ever played with, and it’s no surprise that he included him in his ultimate XI.

What makes Ronaldo stand out to Rivaldo is his sheer natural ability to score goals. Despite struggling with injuries throughout his career, Ronaldo’s capacity to bounce back and perform at the highest level was exceptional. On and off the pitch, the bond they shared was strong, with both players pushing each other to be the best versions of themselves. For Rivaldo, Ronaldo’s skill and infectious personality make him a football legend — one whose impact transcends time.

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Conclusion

Rivaldo’s all-time greatest XI serves as a reminder of the incredible talent that has graced the football field. From the towering presence of Dida to the magical feet of Ronaldinho, these players have left an indelible mark on the game. Their skills, leadership, and passion for football continue to inspire new generations of fans and players alike.

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As the game evolves and new legends emerge, it’s important to appreciate the impact that these footballing greats have had on the sport. They’ve set the bar high for future generations, and their legacy will continue to shape the future of football for years to come.