Danilo, the experienced Brazilian full-back preparing to compete in his third World Cup, sheds new light on the true nature of Cristiano Ronaldo, demystifying the almost supernatural image surrounding him. In exclusive statements to The Athletic, the 34-year-old player, with 69 caps for Brazil, reveals that the Portuguese star is, after all, “a normal person who laughed and had fun,” contradicting the idea that he is an “extraterrestrial” in the world of football.
This revelation comes at a time when Danilo acknowledges the crucial role of figures like Carlo Ancelotti and Cristiano Ronaldo in his view of football and the future of the Brazilian national team. The Italian coach, currently the manager of Brazil, is identified by the Flamengo defender as the key element in the ambition to secure a sixth World Cup title. For Danilo, Ancelotti embodies humility and the ability to unite young and experienced players, essential traits for leading a team after a period of instability.
“Ancelotti is like Cristiano. One of the most famous people in football, but he lives day to day like a normal person. He is humble, and that is one of the most important qualities of champions. He has won a lot, but he works as if he has won nothing,” Danilo emphasized, highlighting the importance of humility in sporting success.
The Brazilian full-back also shared memories of his time at Real Madrid, confessing that the transfer of around 26 million euros in 2015 brought with it enormous psychological pressure that left him uncomfortable on the pitch. However, it was while playing for Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, that Danilo found the key to his longevity at the highest level. According to the defender, the Spanish coach radically changed his mentality about football, elevating his performance and professionalism.
In a more personal account, Danilo also recalled the episode in which he convinced Casemiro to accept a loan to FC Porto in 2014: “Casemiro was almost going to Italy, but I told him that Porto is an incredible city, just like the club. He believed me, decided to go to FC Porto, and we had a good year together.” This decision proved to be crucial for the midfielder’s career, solidifying Danilo’s influence both on and off the field.
With these revelations, Danilo not only humanizes one of the biggest stars in world football but also reinforces the importance of collective work, humble leadership, and a strong mentality to achieve success, both personally and collectively. The preparation for the World Cup thus takes on a new dimension, with Brazil betting on a mix of experience and youth, led by figures who know the path to glory intimately.
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