Arsenal midfielder Fabio Vieira has revealed that Manchester United frontman Cristiano Ronaldo is one of his idols, before going on to praise the Portuguese star for how he interacts with younger players.
The 22-year-old, who joined the Gunners in the summer from Porto, has not played alongside Ronaldo for Portugal, but revealed that his fellow countryman is one of his biggest influences. Vieira also lauded the United man for how he inspires other players with his dedication to his craft.
Ronaldo has endured a difficult campaign at Old Trafford so far this season, registering just three goals in 14 appearances for Erik ten Hag's side. The 37-year-old is likely to feature for the Reds in their upcoming Europa League clash against Real Sociedad on Thursday night.
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Discussing his inspirations in football, Arsenal man Vieira admitted that he was influenced by Ronaldo as he was growing up - insisting that the former Real Madrid star's determination to succeed was, and still is, an admirable trait.
"The two biggest influences for me are Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Ronaldo not because he is Portuguese, but he is really someone who really inspires others with his work ethic, how he had to leave his family and his comfort zone to sign for Sporting, and for him to build the career that he has built inspires everyone," Vieira club media.
"Messi is more to do with my style of play. I am similar to Messi and I appreciate the way that he plays."
He added: "I have met Ronaldo. I met him with the national team as we would both be at the gym, and again recently in our game at Manchester United. He would always provide support and give advice to young players."
Vieira came up against Ronaldo during Arsenal's loss to Ten Hag's side in September, with United securing a 3-1 victory over the Gunners in the Premier League clash.
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