“Ah, simply being around someone who was obviously different, on and off the pitch,” he began speaking to FourFourTwo recently. “I was struck by his ability, his speed and the way he played. His game had a lot of intensity.

Deco (right) played with Ronaldo in the national setup (Image credit: Getty Images)

“He tired out the opposition – he didn’t let the opposing full-back breathe. That was something I hadn’t seen in any player up to that point.

“He always had great technical ability, too. It was amazing to watch him.”

The now Al-Nassr forward has continued to break records, even as he approaches the age of 40.  He is also expected to captain Portugal at this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament in Germany.

Cristiano Ronaldo is one of a kind, for Deco (Image credit: Getty Images)

Many will remember his famous omission from the 2016 final against France, as he was forced to be substituted just 25 minutes into the encounter. Eager to no doubt bring one final piece of silverware to his people back home, many see the competition as the perfect opportunity for Cristiano to bow out.

“I hope I will be at Euro 2024 as there is still a lot of time left,” he told reporters. “I hope I won’t have any problem or injury, I hope to play.

“I left Portugal early but it will always be my home. They support me in every stadium in Portugal. The Portuguese must be congratulated too for the reception they gave us and this qualification is also theirs.”