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Former Arsenal defender Lauren has stated that his toughest opponent was former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs, even more so than Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Cameroonian played 242 times for the Gunners and was part of the “Invincibles” team that won the Premier League in 2003/2004 without losing a single match in the league.
Ryan Giggs and United frequently went head-to-head with Lauren’s Arsenal at the time and produced some of the Premier League’s classic ties.
The era is often fondly remembered by fans due to the raw aggression and dislike between the two sides and the immense skill level of both teams due to the sheer amount of quality players present on the pitch during their titanic tussles.
Speaking on The Italian Football Podcast, the former Arsenal fullback was asked to name his toughest opponent.
He retorted, “I always say Ryan Giggs. He was an extraordinary player. Above every player who played on my side. Above [Arjen] Robben, Duff, Cristiano Ronaldo, above everyone.”
When pressed on why this was the case, the Cameroonian waxed lyrical over the qualities that made Giggs one of the most feared wingers in world football.
“He was a fantastic player. He made you improve your game and challenge your own tactics to stop him. Always driving the ball, so intelligent, he had everything.”
Such was the respect he had for the Welsh wing wizard that he claims one of the best performances of his life was when he nullified him in a match at Old Trafford.
“So, I always say one of the best games I ever played for Arsenal was when we won the double against him at Old Trafford.”
Giggs spent 24 seasons at United, playing a record 963 times for the club and scoring 168 goals.
The winger’s longevity and skill saw him win an incredible 35 trophies, making him the most decorated player in British football history.
