The former Shakhtar Donetsk playmaker says the famous Brazilian duo have had a major influence on his style of play growing up and admits he is loving life at Chelsea
Chelsea star Willian has revealed that compatriots Ronaldo and Ronaldinho served as an inspiration to him in his younger years.
The Brazil international has been in fine form this campaign, scoring 10 goals in 40 appearances in all competitions.
Willian's silky style of play has captured the imagination this term and when asked who has inspired his game growing up, the attacker listed the two famous Brazilians as major influences.
"I always liked watching Ronaldo and Ronaldinho; they were the players who I dreamt about meeting," Willian told UEFA.com.
"They inspired me a lot in my own style of play. I always try to play happily. On the pitch we [Brazilians] tend to forget the things that happen off the field.
"I try to focus a lot on what I'm doing. I think that for a player to develop fully on the pitch he needs to be happy."
Willian has sparkled in what has been an otherwise disappointing campaign for Chelsea, who are hoping to taste success in the Champions League and FA Cup to make up for the poor defence of their Premier League title.
But although times have been tough for the Blues this season, Willian insists he is loving life at Stamford Bridge.
"I am at one of the biggest clubs in the world, playing in what I think is the best league and always playing in the Champions League, so playing at this club is a dream," he added.
"Since I arrived, I have tried to develop every season, play better in each match, and that's what has happened. I hope to continue like this."
- Goal