Ronaldinho's Controversial Champions League XI: Ronaldo Snubbed in Brazilian's Dream Team

Back in 2015, when Cristiano Ronaldo had 'only' won the Champions League twice, Barcelona legend Ronaldinho made a selection that raised more than a few eyebrows. The Brazilian maestro omitted the Portuguese superstar from his all-time Champions League XI, a decision that seems almost unbelievable by today's standards. But hey, everyone's entitled to their opinion, right? Ronaldinho's picks reflected a fascinating blend of legendary status, personal preference, and perhaps a touch of Brazilian bias that made this team both iconic and controversial.

The Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon

The Eternal Bridesmaid ⚽

Ronaldinho's choice between the posts went to Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon, despite the remarkable fact that the goalkeeper never actually lifted the Champions League trophy. Buffon's career reads like a Greek tragedy - coming so close on multiple occasions but never quite getting his hands on the big-eared cup. Still, you can't deny his quality and longevity. The man was basically a fine wine that just kept getting better with age.

Defensive Line: A Mix of Legends and Surprises

Right Back: Cafu 🇧🇷

The Brazilian World Cup winner earned his spot with his marauding runs down the flank and that solitary Champions League triumph with AC Milan in 2007. Cafu was the prototype of the modern attacking full-back, a relentless force of nature who could run all day.

Center Backs: Paolo Maldini & John Terry

Maldini - Now this is what you call a no-brainer. The AC Milan legend won the Champions League three times (plus two European Cups) and redefined what it meant to be a world-class defender. Pure class personified.

John Terry - Here's where things get spicy. Ronaldinho's inclusion of the Chelsea captain raised eyebrows, especially considering Terry's infamous slip in the 2008 final. But the English defender did eventually lift the trophy in 2012, proving that persistence pays off.

Left Back: Roberto Carlos 🚀

The Brazilian cannonball made the cut with his three Champions League wins at Real Madrid. Who could forget those thunderbolt free-kicks? The man had legs like tree trunks and a shot that could probably break the sound barrier.

Midfield Maestros: The Engine Room

Claude Makelele over Xavi? 🤔

Ronaldinho's selection of Makelele ahead of his former Barcelona teammate Xavi was perhaps the most telling indication that this wasn't about friendship. The French defensive midfielder was so influential they named a position after him. Meanwhile, Xavi and Iniesta - architects of tiki-taka football - were left wondering what they did wrong.

Frank Lampard: The Scoring Midfielder

Lampard's inclusion made sense - 23 goals in 102 Champions League appearances and that crucial goal in the 2008 final. The Englishman was the complete package: could defend, create, and score goals like a proper striker.

Attacking Trio: Where Things Get Really Interesting

Right Wing: Lionel Messi 🌟

No surprises here - Ronaldinho's protege was always going to make the cut. Even back in 2015, Messi had already established himself as a Champions League great with four titles and over 100 goals. Some things are just non-negotiable.

Attacking Midfield: Kaka 🇧🇷

The 2007 Ballon d'Or winner was simply magical during Milan's Champions League triumph. Kaka glided across pitches like he was on ice skates, making the difficult look effortless. A genuinely world-class talent at his peak.

Left Wing: Thierry Henry over Ronaldo? 😲

This is where Ronaldinho really stuck his neck out. Choosing Henry over Cristiano Ronaldo was controversial even in 2015. While Henry won the competition with Barcelona in 2009 and scored 50 Champions League goals, Ronaldo's record even back then was superior. But hey, maybe Ronaldinho just preferred Henry's style - can't blame him for having taste!

The Striker: Ronaldo Nazario 🇧🇷

The most questionable selection of all? Brazilian Ronaldo never won the Champions League during his illustrious career. While 'O Fenômeno' was undoubtedly one of the greatest strikers ever, his inclusion over other Champions League legends smacked of national bias. But when you're Ronaldinho, you can get away with these things.

The Notable Absentees 🚫

Ronaldo's omission wasn't the only surprise. Ronaldinho's Barcelona dream team of Xavi, Iniesta, and Puyol were all left out in the cold. It's almost like Ronaldinho went out of his way to avoid picking his former teammates. Maybe there's a story there we don't know about...

The Verdict: A Team of Personality Over Pure Statistics

Ronaldinho's selection tells us more about the man himself than about objective footballing greatness. It's a team built on flair, style, and personal connections rather than cold, hard statistics. While some picks aged like milk (especially the Ronaldo snub), others have stood the test of time.

Looking back from 2025, with Ronaldo now holding five Champions League titles and the competition's all-time scoring record, Ronaldinho's selection seems almost prophetic in its boldness. It reminds us that football isn't just about numbers - it's about artistry, personality, and sometimes, just going with your gut. And really, who are we to argue with a magician like Ronaldinho?