Fabio Paim breaks down in tears during interview as he recalls watching Cristiano Ronaldo train from prison cell

Fabio Paim, the man Cristiano Ronaldo claimed was the only player better than him, has opened up about being "overwhelmed" by money and fame – as well as watching Cristiano Ronaldo from a prison cell – in an emotional interview.

Growing up in Estoril, a small town on the Portuguese Riviera, the talented Paim looked destined for the top.

But after making only a handful of appearances for their reserve team, Paim left the ranks at Stamford Bridge before fading into obscurity.

“I was really special. I must be humble but this is the truth," he said. “Unfortunately back then there was not Instagram or Facebook, nothing was recorded like nowadays but I strongly and honestly believe that until today there was no other like me with the same quality I had.

“But yes at that time I was better than Cristiano. I believe he should give me one of his Ballons d'Or!”

In total, Paim would play in seven different countries – including China, Angola, Malta, Lithuania – but a number of factors, including his behaviour off the field, played a part in his downfall.

“Unfortunately for me, I was born with talent," he added. "As I was earning lots of money, I got the illusion I didn't need the effort. It is impossible for a person like me to be a millionaire.

“I regret some of my choices. Now I'm at a different age so can see the picture differently. The talent was there but my mind wasn't. My head was on women and partying, everywhere else apart from football.

“I played some matches but my body was not in its best shape and didn’t respond to what people were demanding from me because if I could, I would have been at Barcelona or Real Madrid.”

Back in 2019, Paim was arrested for being in possession of cocaine. He would spend a year in prison, where he was held in a cell that was located near the training base of Portugal's national team.

“I was there for a reason and I never thought, 'Ah, Cristiano is there. I should be there too.'" he said. “Prison was really hard and difficult for me and my family. But it was good for me.

“I learned what comes easy is not good for you. And I couldn’t have that lifestyle anymore so I need to work and have dignity.

“My life is calmer now. I'm sure I will make some more mistakes because I am human. Prison was not a place for a boy like me.

“I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me. It was my choice, it was my mistake. But I needed the comfort and support that only family can give you. Family is the most important thing."

Paim last played for Polish third-tier side LZS Starowice in late 2020.