In the Spotlight Once More: The Astonishing Continuation of Cristiano Ronaldo
Criticized elder Ronaldo retaliates, defying criticism and seeking retribution
The soccer universe is abuzz with fervor for Cristiano Ronaldo. Every move he makes is met with adoration, even in the face of Nations League semifinal success against the German squad. But isn't he pushing it at 40?
It's as if Ronaldo's on a never-ending loop, swiftly navigating the pitch with moves that defy age. He kicks off a fierce warm-up, 40 years young and ready, muscles tensed. Fans behind the goal are already electrified, and the action hasn't even begun. The hailstorm in Munich had delayed the start, but the shot – failed spectacularly beside the goal.
The atmosphere surrounding a football national team screams circus – arriving together in various locations every few weeks, providing entertainment and trophies at best. But the Ronaldo show? It escalates to absurdity. Suddenly, it seems like every Munich dweller owns a CR7 jersey. Before the German match, the stadium's screens nearly broadcast every blink of his eye. Even a simple step-over induces collective hysteria – fans shout "Siuu", mimic his celebration, and smartphone cameras chase him like he's the sun.
In the Headlines: CR7 Restores the Glory, Pummels the German TeamMeanwhile, it all seems strange. Ronaldo, more than two decades in the game, sets the stage for spectacle. He's already secured "crazy numbers" for Portugal, a claim even DFB chief Joshua Kimmich can't deny. In his debut for the Portuguese team, back in 2007, Ronaldo started building a legacy. Now, at 40, they question if he's a little past his prime?
The 40-year-old may have excelled in previous achievements, but in Munich, he struggled until the 68th minute. Stationed mostly in the midfield, CR7 looked out of his element. His few touches failed to ignite the game; German defendant Robin Koch seemed to guard him relentlessly, leaving Portugal feeling outmatched.
But the drama unfolded quickly after that. Suddenly, he was there. Coach Julian Nagelsmann had warned about this a week prior – when Ronaldo's in the box, he remains a menace. A pass from the side finds its way to the unmarked CR7, and with precision, he slots the ball into the empty net. The stadium erupted with celebration, 2:1. Ronaldo had broken the losing streak against Germany that had spanned over two decades – a taste of sweet revenge for the Portuguese.
Sports: Dark Skies and Controversy, Ronaldo Sends Germany PackingIt's easy to forget the doubts and criticism when the ball finds the back of the net. Lacking pace? No rhythm? Unimportant. Even if the great Ronaldo sometimes seems like a caricature of himself. During the European Championship last year, he was a drag on his team, even missing a penalty in the round of 16 against Slovenia. At the 2022 World Cup, Portugal was strongest when Ronaldo was benched.
Yet, Cristiano Ronaldo scores. And he always has. In over 800 club games, he's amassed over 800 goals, becoming Real Madrid's all-time leading scorer. He boasts a record number of appearances, goals, and assists in the Champions League. All these numbers and records have built the myth Ronaldo has fostered over the years. While Lionel Messi seemed born to dance with the ball, Cristiano Ronaldo carved his success with discipline and sheer willpower.
Ronaldo initially dove into the desert two years ago. But the golden shine of CR7 hasn't dulled. Germany goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen admired his effect, "It's easy to follow what he does," ter Stegen said, "even if he's in Saudi Arabia." The Saudi sportswashing project, with its questionable human rights record, has benefited from Ronaldo's star power. Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup, and the CR7 legacy has grown at Al-Nassr FC, where he's amassed 99 goals in 111 appearances. Another impressive tally, but still no championships for Al-Nassr.
So, CR7 has closed that chapter and looks to the future. On Instagram, an enigmatic post read, "The story continues." He's grateful for Al-Nassr, but new horizons beckon. The Saudi club is keen on negotiations for an extension, but Ronaldo is aiming higher – the Club World Cup, shining a spotlight on what will be his next move. The US will host the tournament for the first time, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino personally involved in the proceedings.
But the final words belong to Cristiano Ronaldo – the show's star who remains unspeakable. As the curtain falls on yet another thrilling performance, he gracefully exits the stage, ready to chase down the next goal.
Sources: ntv.de
Notable Facts:
- Cristiano Ronaldo holds the record for the most capped player, with more than 220 caps for Portugal.
- With 137 international goals, Ronaldo also holds the record for the most goals scored in men's international football.
- Ronaldo has participated in multiple major tournaments, including five UEFA European Championships and five FIFA World Cups, and led Portugal to their first major title at Euro 2016.
- Ronaldo has several UEFA records, including most EURO final tournaments (6), most EURO final tournament appearances (30), and most EURO goals (55).
The community policy and employment policy of Al-Nassr FC, the Saudi Arabian football club where Cristiano Ronaldo plays, should consider strategies to manage the immense popularity and expectations surrounding the 40-year-old footballer, ensuring a harmonious work environment for all players and staff.
Meanwhile, despite controversy and questions about his age and performance, the enduring success of Cristiano Ronaldo on the soccer pitch continues to inspire athletes, particularly in sports like football, to push beyond their perceived limits and redefine what is possible.
