Cristiano Ronaldo, synonymous with football greatness, faced a challenging chapter at Euro 2024. Portugal’s journey in the tournament ended last Friday after a heart-wrenching loss to France in the tie-breaker, resulting in their exit from the quarter-finals. This marked a significant moment in Ronaldo’s illustrious career as, for the first time, he failed to score even once in a major competition.
The Stalwart of Portuguese Football
Cristiano Ronaldo’s contribution to Portuguese football has been monumental. Over nearly two decades, he has been the face of the national team, leading them to numerous victories, including the historic win at Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019. His presence on the field has been a source of inspiration for fans and teammates alike. However, at 39, his future in international football looms large.
Euro 2024: A Tough Campaign
Euro 2024 was anticipated to be another platform for Ronaldo to showcase his undying prowess. Yet, the tournament painted a different picture. Portugal’s team, rich in talent from defense to attack, struggled to find their rhythm, culminating in a narrow defeat to France. Despite Ronaldo’s fitness and determination, his performance was not up to his usual high standards, leading to widespread speculation about his future.
Expert Opinions: Time for a New Chapter?
Several football pundits and former players have weighed in on Ronaldo’s situation. On Sky Sports’ Stick to Football: The Overlap Special, Ian Wright expressed disappointment over Portugal’s exit, emphasizing the depth and quality of the squad. He pointed out that players like Diogo Jota might feel disappointed for not getting their chance on the pitch, hinting at the need for a fresh approach.
Ian Wright’s Perspective
Wright observed, “What I saw of him [Cristiano Ronaldo], he can’t cut it at this level now. As good as he is, as fit as he is, as driven as he is, you can see he can’t quite get it out of his feet to get a shot in; the movement with a header, he can’t get past a defender now.”
Roy Keane’s Analysis
Roy Keane suggested that Ronaldo might benefit from stepping back from international football, at least temporarily. He highlighted that Ronaldo’s movement and instincts are still impressive, but the demands of international football might require a different strategy. “He [Cristiano Ronaldo] should have a break and step back from international football, and if he’s still playing at club level, then look at the World Cup when it comes around.”
Gary Neville’s Insight
Gary Neville concluded the discussion by addressing the broader impact of Ronaldo’s presence on the team. He noted, “This dynamic of unbelievable desire, self-fight, determination—all those things that you love about him [Cristiano Ronaldo]—how overbearing is it for the rest of the players and the manager and the country?” Neville emphasized the difficulty of balancing Ronaldo’s legendary status with the team’s evolving needs.
The Path Forward
As Ronaldo takes a well-deserved holiday with his family, the debate about his future continues. The legendary forward is expected to return to Saudi Arabia to prepare for the 2024/25 Saudi Pro League season. His commitment to his club career remains unwavering, but his role in the national team is under scrutiny.
A Legacy to Remember
Regardless of the outcome, Ronaldo’s legacy in international football is secure. He has set records, won titles, and inspired countless young players worldwide. His journey with Portugal has been a testament to his dedication, skill, and unyielding spirit.
The Need for Transition
For Portugal, this moment could mark the beginning of a transition. Integrating younger talents and building a team that can perform cohesively without over-reliance on a single player might be the way forward. Players like Diogo Jota and others are ready to step up and take on more significant roles, potentially leading the team to future success.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the Portuguese national team is a topic of passionate debate. While his contributions to football are unparalleled, the realities of age and the demands of international competition suggest it might be time for a new chapter. Whether he steps back or continues to lead, his impact on the sport will endure, inspiring future generations and cementing his place in football history. As fans, we celebrate his achievements and look forward to the future for Ronaldo and the Portuguese national team.
