Massimo Moratti’s sister Bedy believes there can be no doubt about just how special Ronaldo was at Inter.
Ronaldo joined Inter in a then world-record transfer deal from Barcelona back in 1997 and dazzled the San Siro crowds with his pace, power and trickery in between a series of serious injuries.
Although he only made 99 appearances over a five-year period, the Brazilian left an indelible mark and his contribution is still fondly remembered to this day.
“He was truly a phenomenon,” Moratti explained in an interview with Italian radio station Radio Nerazzurra on Tuesday.
“He was a champion.
“At that time I did not travel around with the team because I lived in Rome but I went to Milan just for Inter.
“Ronaldo was something special and apart from that he was very nice.
“He did what he wanted both on and off the pitch, but he was a real phenomenon.
“If they him that, there is a very specific reason.
“I have heard of friends who are AC Milan fans and perhaps also Juventus fans, who bought Inter tickets to just go and see Ronaldo.
“Unfortunately, then he got injured.
“He had his problems, but he kept us entertained a lot for a while.”
Moratti was also asked whether she would like to see Ronaldo, who is the current owner of Spanish side Real Valladolid, return to the Nerazzurri in some capacity in the future.
“We should find him a suitable role because he is someone who wants to do what he wants.
“He certainly isn’t a very obedient person.”
In his spell with the club, Ronaldo scored 59 goals, provided 12 assists and helped Inter win the UEFA Cup, now the UEFA Europa League, in his first season with the team.
