Nike airs final ad in Wieden & Kennedy Joga Bonito series

LONDON - Eric Cantona names Ronaldo as 'the miracle man' in 'homage', the final ad in Wieden & Kennedy Amsterdam's series of seven 'Joga Bonito' ads for Nike.

The 60-second spot, which launches worldwide this weekend, shows Ronaldo's creative footballing skills, with former Manchester United star Cantona referring to him as "boy wonder, the king, the miracle man, the keeper's nightmare, the phenomenon".

This comes as the Brazilian number nine faces media criticism, saying he has passed his prime. Brazilian coach Carlos Parreira has defended his star player, putting his lack of fitness down to an injury.

"Joga Bonito", Portuguese for "play beautifully", began in March with Cantona bursting into a German TV studio to proclaim what football is really about -- skill, passion and style.

Wayne Rooney featured in "heart" with England teammate Rio Ferdinand and his club's boss, Sir Alex Ferguson. Rooney's team concede a goal in training, so the Manchester United star decides to go in goal himself.

The "homage" ad was directed by Ulf Johansson and produced by Philippa Smith of Smith & Sons. MindShare handled the media buying on the campaign.

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