He came close to his former self in 2002-03 and 2007-08. I don't know why, but those two seasons he was in excellent physical shape too. But during 1997-98... He was the best in the world imo.
Fantastic channel, watched several clips in his archive just now. Was most fascinating seeing Michael Laudrup playing for us in 85, owning Napoli. What a ridiculously nifty player, in most aspects except finishing hehe.