Casemiro says Gareth Bale was more complete than Cristiano Ronaldo, sparking debate as he reflects on his Real Madrid career

Former Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro has sparked debate after suggesting that Gareth Bale was a more “complete” player than Cristiano Ronaldo, while still hailing Ronaldo as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

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Casemiro made the comments while reflecting on his years at Real Madrid during an appearance on *The Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE* podcast.

The Brazilian was part of a star-studded Madrid squad that dominated European football, playing alongside talents such as Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Recalling his time with the duo, Casemiro praised Ronaldo’s unmatched goal-scoring ability but highlighted Bale’s all-round contributions on the pitch.

“Cristiano scores goals, at least 15 every season. But Bale attacks, defends, scores headers, takes free-kicks, he does everything,” he said.

He was quick to stress, however, that Ronaldo remains in a category of his own.

“Cristiano is the best. Cristiano is different. You almost have to remove him from the conversation,” Casemiro added.

The Brazilian midfielder explained that Bale’s versatility and physical attributes made him stand out as a more complete player in his view.

“For me, Bale was more complete because he could do everything. He attacked, defended, scored with his head, scored from free-kicks, and he was incredibly fast and powerful,” he said.

Bale enjoyed a highly successful spell at Real Madrid after joining from Tottenham Hotspur, scoring 106 goals in 258 appearances and winning multiple La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles, including decisive goals in major finals.

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The remarks have reignited long-running debates among football fans about the differing strengths and legacies of two of Real Madrid’s modern legends.