One number nine shirt danced the stepover at the Bernabeu, and then scored from the spot. Post-match interview showed a different Cristiano. Ronaldo didn’t mature in England; he is about to in Spain. If reports on his ambitions are true, which is to become the best player ever, there are two role models for him to follow.

Manchester days saw a Cristiano full of himself, with hints of Diego Maradona’s brash character. Opposite of him stood the steady Lionel. A humble Messi (Iniesta too) is more of the Pele type. Putting things to place, Cristiano and Lionel haven’t accomplished enough to compare with the likes of Xavi Hernandez, whose quality and achievements at par with Gullit or Platini. Now, die hard CR fans dont worry. Putting optimism to things, Ronaldo, Messi plus few others substantially have room for growth to reach even bigger things than those other names; but how?

Considering Maradona’s path, Ronaldo doesn’t have the flair or creativity. Winning copa mundial for Portugal, though, will excuse all flaws, and I would argue that Portugal today is a more talented side than Argentina in 1986.

Pele’s path also demands world cup sacrifice and other personal records. But Pele wasn’t a player who drags a team on two feet and a handfist. He was the niceguy superstar who completed a world class side: the icing on a cake. Ronaldo could also be that icing on a team backboned by Xabi Alonso and Kaka, whose superpass could take advantage of Ronaldo’s pace. But to become someone like Pele, Ronaldo must change his attitude. Perhaps Kaka could assist in a newborn Cristiano.

Which path do you think suits Cristiano most, and how do you fancy his chances?