Gremio coach Renato Gaucho insists he was a better player than Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, the Brazilian told reporters in Abu Dhabi on Friday, ahead of his side’s Club World Cup final against Los Blancos.

The 55-year-old, who started his playing career at the club he is currently managing, and won the Copa America with Brazil in 1989, was adamant in his views that he was superior to Ronaldo.

“I maintain [that I was a better player than Cristiano Ronaldo],” said Gaucho.

“That’s why I admire Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s a true champion. He’s one of the greatest players in the world with great qualities. Every year he tries to break his own records. I really admire than in a player. He is also very generous off the pitch which I admire a lot too.

“But it’s very easy for those who didn’t see me play to only praise Cristiano Ronaldo. I applaud him in every way, but to know who played better, you would have to talk with a lot of people who also saw me play. So my opinion remains the same. I admire him a lot but that’s my opinion. Everyone has their opinion. I have mine too.”