“The real GOAT” – Super Eagles star ‘speechless’ after meeting Barcelona great Ronaldinho

The Nigeria international is known for his trickery on the ball and his penchant for nutmegs

Super Eagles winger, Emmanuel Dennis, has expressed his admiration for Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho Gaucho, referring to him as his football idol, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Renowned for his exceptional skill and love for nutmegs, Dennis considers Ronaldinho one of the most gifted footballers to have graced the game.

Having been born in 1997, Dennis was a mere five-year-old when Ronaldinho played a pivotal role in Brazil’s triumph at the FIFA World Cup in Korea/Japan in 2002. Ronaldinho’s remarkable performances earned him a spot in the prestigious FIFA World Cup All-Star Team.

During the peak of his career, Ronaldinho was widely regarded as the best player in the world, securing the FIFA World Player of the Year accolade twice in 2004 and 2005.

Furthermore, he clinched the UEFA Champions League title in 2006 with Barcelona, adding to his extensive list of accomplishments.

Inspired by the Brazilian maestro’s breathtaking moments on the field, Dennis disclosed his admiration during a chance encounter with Ronaldinho at a private gathering.

The Nigerian international captured the special moment and shared it on his Twitter account, accompanied by the caption: “Meet the reason why I’m a football player today, the real GOAT. I’m speechless.” 

Presently enjoying a well-deserved break following a challenging season in which his club Nottingham Forest narrowly avoided relegation from the English Premier League, the 25-year-old forward did not receive a call-up for the Super Eagles’ upcoming match against Sierra Leone.

With the 2023/24 season on the horizon, Dennis is relishing his extended vacation.