The unexpected verdict of Roberto Carlos on the Galácticos

The story of the Real Madrid Galácticos is filled with mythology, egos, overwhelming talent, and an aura that defined an entire generation. But now, one of its most iconic protagonists, Roberto Carlos, has decided to break the script and reveal his own truth. In a conversation with Obi Mikel, the Brazilian dropped a statement no one saw coming: “Beckham was the best of them all.”

The claim is explosive, especially coming from someone who shared the locker room daily with Zidane, Ronaldo, Figo, Raúl, and other global superstars. For Roberto Carlos, the Englishman didn’t just shine through his media presence, he was the most consistent, committed, and complete footballer inside that star-studded squad.

“He was pure heart, he never failed,” the Brazilian insisted, emphasizing that Beckham trained harder than anyone and competed with a level of consistency that even the biggest talents couldn’t always maintain.

Beckham, the most complete: why Roberto Carlos places him above Zidane and Ronaldo

Many will be surprised that Roberto Carlos ranks Beckham above Zinedine Zidane, widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. The Brazilian admits that “Zidane was top, he was the best”, but clarifies that the Englishman possessed something unique: absolute discipline, a winning mentality, and a team-first mindset that set him apart.

For the former full-back, Beckham “didn’t play for a club; he played for his friends, for Madrid, to win,” while other stars “thought of themselves more often.” His self-demand, intensity, and total commitment made him, in Roberto’s view, the true driving force of that team.

His opinion carries even more weight when he recalls that Beckham was the most consistent player in training and matches, something only someone who lived alongside him every day could fully appreciate.

Ronaldo and Zidane: magic, talent… and the human side behind the legends

Roberto Carlos also spoke about Ronaldo Nazário, his childhood friend. His admiration remained intact: “Even when he was a bit overweight, he was still the best.” For him, without injuries, Ronaldo would have been the most dominant player of his era.

He also described the “Fenômeno” as someone who needed to celebrate, enjoy life, and live intensely: “His parties were better than Ronaldinho’s,” he confessed, reflecting the chemistry of that unforgettable locker room.

About Zidane, Roberto spoke with deep reverence: “He performed ballet.” He even recalled the cross that led to the legendary Champions League final volley: “I delivered it without knowing he was there.”

The harsh reality of the Galácticos locker room: Figo, tension and an unrepeatable Real Madrid

The Brazilian also revisited tense memories, such as Luis Figo’s infamous return to Camp Nou: “It felt like a war.” It remains the only match of his career he wishes he had never played.

He reflected on the intensity of that team, the constant pressure, and the explosive mix of egos and brilliance. From the departure of Makélélé, to the volcanic personality of Gravesen, to the idea that Real Madrid “needed a crazy one” in the squad, Roberto Carlos paints a raw and honest picture of an era that cannot be replicated.

Today, as a Real Madrid ambassador, he acknowledges that he works even harder than he did as a player. And although he misses competing at the highest level, he remains proud to represent the club that changed his life.