Casemiro has described former Real Madrid teammate Gareth Bale as the most complete player he played with at the Spanish club, while still ranking Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest.
The Manchester United midfielder made the remarks during an appearance on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, according to BBC Sport on Wednesday.
The Brazilian midfielder spent nine years at Real Madrid, where he won several titles, including multiple UEFA Champions League trophies alongside Bale and Ronaldo.
Speaking on the podcast, Casemiro separated overall greatness from all-round football ability.
He described Ronaldo as being in a class of his own because of his extraordinary consistency and goal-scoring record.
Casemiro said: “Cristiano is the best, he’s in another world. Take Cristiano out of the conversation.”
However, the former Porto midfielder said Bale possessed the most complete skill set among the players he featured alongside at Madrid.
The five-time Champions League winner praised the former Wales captain for his speed, strength, aerial ability and defensive contribution.
Casemiro said: “But for me, Bale is the best, most complete player.
“Everything he does is very good.
“Very quick.
“Too strong.
“For me Bale is unbelievable.”
The comments have sparked fresh debate among football fans over how greatness should be measured, with discussions focusing on Ronaldo’s dominance in front of goal and Bale’s versatility across different areas of the pitch.
During their time together at Real Madrid, Casemiro, Bale and Ronaldo formed part of one of the club’s most successful generations, winning domestic and European titles under different managers.
