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I will pick him over Ronaldo — Rafa Benitez hails former CAF Player of the Year

Former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has made a shocking claim, picking a surprise player over Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
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Spanish tactician and former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez believes Cristiano Ronaldo is not the most complete footballer of all time.

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The 65-year-old has coached some of the world's greatest talents, including the likes of Steven Gerrard, Samuel Eto'o, Xabi Alonso, and more.

Benitez is all set to lead a team of legends in the ‘2025 Icons Match’ in Seoul, South Korea, this weekend.

Rafa Benitez, former Liverpool manager || Imago

Benitez picks Mohamed Salah over Cristiano Ronaldo

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Ahead of the event, which will feature legendary figures, including former Liverpool captain Gerrard, Benitez spoke to YouTube channel Shoot For Love.

Cristiano Ronaldo in action against Hungary || Image credit: Imago
Cristiano Ronaldo in action against Hungary || Image credit: Imago
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr. - Al Nassr v Toulouse, Pre-Season Friendly, Test Match, MGG Arena, Grodig, Austria. - 30th July 2025. (C) Daniel Weir
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr.

Benitez was asked to pick between various forwards before deciding on an overall winner. Mohamed Salah was picked ahead of South Korea legend Son Heung-Min.

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“Because we are here, I will do that [pick Son]!” laughed Benitez. “No, Salah, because he is more consistent.

After going through several rounds, Salah came up against football great Cristiano Ronaldo.

Mohamed Salah Golden Boot | pulsesports.ng
Mohamed Salah won the Golden Boot and Playmaker awards in the 2024-25 Premier League season (Credit: Premier League)

“Ronaldo is the greatest maybe finisher, but Salah is more complete.“

"At the end, I know where this will finish [Ronaldo vs Messi], so I will go here [with Salah].”

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