IBRAHIMOVIĆ: “AT MAN UTD, ROONEY DOES EVERYTHING BUT RONALDO WON ALL THE GLORY”

🎙 Zlatan Ibrahimović on Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United

In a recent interview with **BBC Sport**, Zlatan Ibrahimović shared his candid thoughts on the dynamics between Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo during their time together at Manchester United. Ibrahimović’s remarks shed light on the contributions of Rooney and the recognition Ronaldo received, sparking discussions about teamwork, individual accolades, and longevity in football.

#### A Tale of Two Legends: Rooney’s Sacrifices vs. Ronaldo’s Glory

Ibrahimović began by highlighting the distinct roles Rooney and Ronaldo played during their overlapping years at Manchester United. While Ronaldo garnered attention for his goal-scoring prowess, Rooney was the unsung hero who tirelessly worked behind the scenes. As Ibrahimović put it:

> “When Cristiano Ronaldo played at Manchester United, Wayne Rooney did all the work, but Cristiano took all the glory. He was the one scoring goals. Rooney was running, fighting, and sacrificing for the team much more than the player from Madeira.”

This statement underscores a common theme in football: the often unrecognized contributions of players who prioritize the team over personal accolades. Rooney’s relentless work ethic, versatility, and willingness to adapt his role for the betterment of the squad were pivotal in Manchester United’s success during that era. Meanwhile, Ronaldo’s remarkable ability to finish chances and shine in critical moments cemented his reputation as a global superstar.

#### The Pressure of Consistency at the Top Level

Ibrahimović also delved into the challenges of maintaining top-level performance over an extended period, praising Rooney for his longevity:

> “Great players have their moments of brilliance for 1 to 3 years. But to maintain it for 5, even 10 years, like Rooney did, is not easy. That’s the daily pressure of playing for a big club.”

This sentiment reflects the immense pressure that players at elite clubs like Manchester United face. Performing consistently over a decade, as Rooney did, requires mental toughness, physical resilience, and adaptability. Rooney’s ability to evolve his game, transitioning from a forward to a deeper playmaking role later in his career, exemplifies his dedication and footballing intelligence.

#### A Comparative Legacy

While both players have achieved extraordinary success, their legacies are defined by different attributes. Ronaldo’s trajectory has been marked by his incredible goal-scoring records, multiple Ballon d’Or titles, and his transformation into a global icon. On the other hand, Rooney, though celebrated, often flew under the radar in discussions about the world’s greatest players, despite being Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer and one of England’s finest talents.

Ibrahimović’s comments highlight the nuances of individual vs. team contributions. Ronaldo’s glory, in part, was built on the foundation of players like Rooney, who sacrificed personal recognition for collective success. However, this dynamic doesn’t diminish Ronaldo’s achievements but rather emphasizes the collaborative nature of football.

#### Broader Implications in Modern Football

Ibrahimović’s remarks also open a broader conversation about the importance of teamwork and the distribution of credit in football. Star players often rely on their teammates to create opportunities, cover defensive duties, and provide the support needed to shine. While the spotlight frequently falls on goal-scorers, players like Rooney, who excel in less glamorous roles, are equally essential.

Moreover, the comparison invites reflection on how football has evolved. In today’s game, analytics and metrics like expected goals (xG), pressing statistics, and assist tallies are increasingly used to assess a player’s value. These tools could have provided greater recognition for Rooney’s contributions during his prime.

#### Conclusion

Zlatan Ibrahimović’s observations about Rooney and Ronaldo at Manchester United remind fans of the multifaceted nature of greatness in football. While Ronaldo dazzled with his goal-scoring exploits, Rooney’s relentless work ethic and adaptability were the backbone of the team’s success. The discussion serves as a tribute to both players’ unique qualities and a reminder of the collaborative spirit that defines the beautiful game.