Ballet legend Maya Plisetskaya: To me Wayne Rooney looks like a Russian

Maya Plisetskaya, one of the greatest dancers in the history of ballet, revealed herself to be a big football fan, chatting to Sport-Express about her likes and dislikes in the sport.

«I remember that you picked out the young prodigy Cristiano Ronaldo during Euro-2004 as not only very talented, but also extremely handsome. You said he has ballet legs…»

«Cristiano is spectacular, yes. But football-wise Messi is unsurpassed – he is the number one,» the 86-year-old Russian replied.

«What do you think of England star Wayne Rooney?»

«He is wonderful. My husband Rodion even said once, that Rooney reminded him of Russian football legend Streltsov. Actually, he does look more Russian than English, in my opinion.»

«Let’s talk about managers. Everyone loves Joachim Loew in Germany. What do you think?»

«There is something about him that reminds me of 19th century French novels. He is very culture, almost like an artist. He doesn’t look like a coach, but he is, and a great one at that.»

«Which of the top coaches would you single out as your favourite?»

«Mourinho is extremely talented, a true manager. Guardiola is excellent too, of course. Barca’s results show that. It’s like in ballet – show me the dancer, and I know what his master is worth. Look how they pass around, how intelligent and exciting their play is. Of course, he is a little bit of a dandy, but he deserves to be one. A nice, elegant suit, very stylish.

«And what are thoughts on Sir Alex Ferguson?»

«Is it ok if I don’t think about him?»

«Ok, then what about Bayern’s new coach Jupp Heynckes?»

«He is a lot nicer than his predecessor – Van Gaal was horrendous. I felt deep hatred toward him, as if he was my mortal enemy. He treated players horribly; I was thrilled when he got the sack. I had a glass of wine to celebrate then.»