The Tottenham Hotspur boss weighed in on the impact of both superstar after Ronaldo inspired Manchester United to victory against his Tottenham Hotspur side.

Tottenham Hotspur boss Antonio Conte has hailed Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the game's greatest ever following the superstar's sensational performance for Manchester United in his side's defeat on Saturday. The 37-year-old forward outrightly became the player with the most career goals in the history of football with by inspiring the Red Devils to a 3-2 win over the North London club.

The test between the two clubs was of massive significance as both sides are actively chasing a top-four finish in the Premier League. In the end, it was Manchester United who carried the day, with Cristiano Ronaldo proving to be the hero once more. The former Juventus scored twice in the first half and added his third in the second half to secure the maximum three points for Ralf Rangnick's side, making Harry Kane's strike and Harry Maguire's own-goal insignificant. 

It had been a tough start to the year for Cristiano Ronaldo. Prior to his three goals on Saturday night, the Portuguese superstar had managed just two goals in 10 appearances across all competitions for Manchester United in 2022. Following the conclusion of Saturday's encounter, Conte lauded the 37-year-old's contribution and for still being at the top of his game despite his age. The Italian coach added that the the five-time Ballon d'Or winner and his archnemesis Lionel Messi can be placed in the same bracket as Diego Maradona and Pele. 

"It was an amazing performance from Cristiano, but I know him very well and it's not a surprise for me," Conte said.

"We're talking about a player that with Messi they are the best players in the world right now, with Maradona and Pele [in history] in my opinion, we're talking about a player who is decisive and in the moment the team needed him he's always present."

"I remember very well the Champions League group for Manchester United and he was decisive to go to the next round," he added.

"He's a player who feels this type of game. Tonight we didn't discover him. A great compliment to him because to arrive at this age with this form and mentality and this desire to win you have to give all the great compliments to your opponent."