Some of the top footballers from various generations were born on this date

February 5 marks the birthday of not one legendary football player but several. Across generations, several footballing legends were born on this date who went on to leave a lasting impression on the world of football at the club and national level. Therefore, on this day, i.e., February 5, check out which footballers share their special day with each other.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Football fans, whether they are Cristiano Ronaldo fans or not, know that the 5th of February belongs to one man only. Born in Funchal, Portugal, Ronaldo turns 41 this year but has no intention of slowing down, as he is determined to play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Ronaldo has won everything in the world of football, but he is still chasing the World Cup. This year, we hope he finally gets his hands on the trophy.

Cesare Maldini

The majority of Indian football fans, especially millennials, grew up idolising Paolo Maldini for his defensive skills. However, February 5 marks the birthday of his father, Cesare Maldini – the one who started the Maldini legacy in AC Milan’s history. Born in 1932, Maldini played 347 games for AC Milan, captaining them to four Serie A league titles, one European Cup and one Latin Cup. He also played for the Italian national team and was the manager of several clubs, such as Milan, Foggia, Ternana, and Parma.

Neymar Jr.

Once touted to be the next great thing after Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona, Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior was also born on February 5. One of the most talented players of his generation, Neymar Jr has scored over 450 goals in his career. However, his career decisions, coupled with injuries, did not allow him to become the godly figure he could’ve been with the potential he had. He really was the prince who could not become the king.

Carlos Tevez

Also born on February 5, can Carlos Tevez truly be labelled as a legend? Can he be put beside the above-mentioned players? The answer is a straightforward no! He neither scored as many goals nor got as many assists as Ronaldo and Neymar, but he was part of a phenomenal attacking trio that earned him a huge set of fans. His time at Manchester United, even as a loan player from West Ham, provided United fans with the trio of Rooney, Ronaldo, and Tevez, creating one of the deadliest attacking trios in English football. Imagine scoring 79 goals and 29 assists in 140 games!