He never gave me a second to breathe: Cristiano Ronaldo calls ex-Chelsea star 'toughest opponent'

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed the toughest opponent he has ever faced is former Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole.

They crossed paths multiple times throughout Ronaldo's six-year tenure at Manchester United and during their respective international duties with Portugal and England.

Despite Ronaldo going on to become one of the world's greatest-ever players since leaving England, he still rates Ashley Cole highly.

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"Over the years I had some great battles with Ashley Cole, he does not give you a second to breathe," Ronaldo told Coach Mag. 

"He was such a tenacious player when he was at his peak, quick, tough in the tackle. You knew it would never be an easy game."