Barcelona ace Gavi defends Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Spain vs Portugal: ‘One of the best in history’

FC Barcelona and Spain midfielder Gavi has dismissed criticism aimed at Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Monday’s World Cup Round-of-16 clash, insisting the Portuguese captain remains one of football’s greatest players and is still capable of deciding matches.

During an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the Barcelona star also revealed that he has not spoken to his close friend Joao Cancelo before the game, with both players fully focused on their national teams.

Gavi shows respect to Ronaldo

With Portugal not playing at their best despite boasting of an exceptional squad, there has been a lot of criticism aimed at Ronaldo, with many suggesting that his presence on the pitch had been holding the team back.

Asked about claims that Ronaldo’s presence may now be a disadvantage for Portugal, Gavi offered a firm response.

“I always hear that, but from people who aren’t on his team, from fans,” Gavi said. “Those who are on his team have immense respect for him.”

Gavi defends Cristiano Ronaldo amid growing criticism. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

He continued: “Obviously, Cristiano is one of the best players in history and he can make the difference at any moment.”

No messages with Joao Cancelo

Gavi also spoke about facing Barcelona full-back target Joao Cancelo, revealing that the two friends have deliberately avoided contact before the match.

“No, the truth is we haven’t spoken,” he explained.

“I think both he and I are focused and concentrated on the game. I don’t think he’ll talk to me until after the game, and I won’t talk to him either. We’re both focused on our country, our national team, and winning.”

Respect for Portugal

The Spain international acknowledged that Portugal will be his team’s toughest opponent of the tournament so far.

“Yes, it’s clear they’re the toughest opponent we’ve faced so far. They’re a great team, with good players. I hope the team is focused on what we have to do, on the manager’s plan, and that we all work together to win this tie,” he said.

Gavi also highlighted the importance of controlling midfield against a side with so much technical ability.

Gavi wary of Portugal’s strengths. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

“Yes. They have a great midfield, but we also have very good players, both those who start and those on the bench. I think our greatest strength is our large squad with such talented players. I hope we can show that in the match.”

Motivated by last year’s defeat

Finally, Gavi admitted that Spain are using last year’s Nations League loss to Portugal as extra motivation.

“Yes, perhaps it’s an extra motivation, an added bonus. That match was decided on penalties. I think we were better in that game, we deserved to win, but football is about scoring more goals.

“I hope that the day after tomorrow we’ll all be focused and that we’ll take the chances we get.”

Spain and Portugal meet on Monday for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the knockout stage.