Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand has ignited a debate by suggesting former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry might have a hidden animosity towards Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ferdinand, who played alongside Ronaldo at Manchester United for six years, made these comments on a recent podcast.
The discussion centered around the relationship between Cristiano Ronaldo and other football legends, particularly those who share similar names.
Regarding the original Ronaldo, the Brazilian footballing great, Ferdinand believes the name itself might be a source of tension.
"There's beef there somewhere," Ferdinand suggested, speculating that the Brazilian Ronaldo might harbor a grudge due to Cristiano inheriting his iconic name.
However, the more intriguing suggestion came with regards to Thierry Henry.
Ferdinand claims to see a lack of enthusiasm when Henry speaks about Cristiano.
"The way I see Thierry talk about Cristiano, it's more what he doesn't say," he said. "He doesn't talk about him with any zest or spark."
Ferdinand even referenced a past incident from their playing days.
"There was a clip at Highbury when Henry slaps him on the back of the head or something like that and Cristiano pushes him off," he recounted.
These comments have sparked debate amongst fans.
Did Ferdinand simply misinterpret Henry's lack of effusive praise? Or could there be a deeper underlying issue between the two legendary strikers?
Only Henry and Ronaldo themselves know the true nature of their relationship.