Former Barcelona star says he is inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Jr's freekicks after scoring stunning goal for current club
Former Barcelona forward Memphis Depay has stated that he is inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Jr's freekicks after scoring a stunning goal for Corinthians. The 30-year-old Dutchman signed for the Brazilian outfit in September.
Depay has bagged six goals and four assists in 13 games for his new side. After his latest goal, a spectacular freekick against Bahia in a 3-0 win, the Dutchman talked about his inspirations. He said (via GOAL):
"In the past, it was Cristiano Ronaldo. He scored a lot of goals, and I trained a lot in that type of free kick. Now, I don't train as much and I went a long time without scoring many free kicks. But I would say Cristiano Ronaldo. I would say Juninho [Pernambucano], but we don't have a good relationship, so I don't mention him. Neymar takes beautiful free kicks, with more control. I think those guys. But, in the past, it was Cristiano Ronaldo, when he made those balls that died [makes the hand signal of the ball that falls after the barrier]."
Depay added:
"To be honest, you have to develop your own skill. I tried to shoot like the others, but it didn't work. I have to shoot like myself, it's my quality. Today, the ball went in and it was one of the best free kicks of my career."
Depay has represented Ronaldo's former club Manchester United and Neymar's former club Barcelona in his career. He played 53 games for the Red Devils and 42 for La Blaugrana.
"I like to see him playing... avoiding injuries" - What Cristiano Ronaldo said about former Barcelona star Neymar Jr.
In 2019, Ronaldo discussed his relationship with Neymar Jr., who represented Paris Saint-Germain at the time. Ronaldo and Neymar faced off against each other during their time with Real Madrid and La Blaugrana, respectively.
Ronaldo faced the Brazilian winger eight times, winning three, drawing one, and losing four clashes. However, the legendary forward holds no ill will towards the forward and said in 2019 (via Bleacher Report):
"I like to see him playing and regardless of where he is, taking care of himself and avoiding injuries. That's what I want for him."
Ronaldo and Neymar Jr. currently play in Saudi Arabia for Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, respectively. The Portuguese superstar is one of the most lethal goalscorers in the Saudi Pro League, having bagged 73 goals and 18 assists in 82 appearances. However, the former Barcelona star has struggled with injuries since moving there.