Weighed down. As usual. Indeed, more than usual. Yesterday, in the evening, there was a challenge at the Bernabeu between the legends of Real Madrid and those in colours of Roma. With so many special images on the field, like Figo's pearl free kick, and a few pounds too, like that shown by Ronaldo, the Phenomenon.

Who was once the defenders' terror, but the idol of any football enthusiast, is now the cumbersome shadow of what he was. Despite this, his class remains intact, and the Bernabeu knows him so well that it gave him a standing ovation. And for the record, the match was won by Real Madrid by a scoreline of 4-0. Not many could ever question the playing ability of the Brazilian, and the same goes for another South American legend, Diego Maradona. With all these extra pounds, they are barely a reminder of the pace and acceleration they once had. But their immaculate touch will never go away...