As the football world gears up for the 2024 European Championship, Cristiano Ronaldo finds himself at a pivotal point in his illustrious career. Recently, Ali McCoist, a retired forward known for his sharp insights, remarked that “Father Time” has finally caught up with the Portuguese superstar. This sentiment echoes across the sports community, especially after Ronaldo’s performance at the 2022 World Cup, where then-coach Fernando Santos notably benched him.
Ronaldo’s Current Form
At 39, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to command a presence on the field, though not with the same dominance as in his prime. During the 2022 World Cup, Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, faced criticism for choosing Ronaldo, reflecting the growing concern over his fitness and impact in high-stakes games. Yet, Martinez has supported Ronaldo vehemently, playing him for 90 minutes in all of Portugal’s recent matches. Although Ronaldo has not scored, his contribution includes an assist in a crucial match against Turkey, suggesting that while his ability to influence games directly through goals may have waned, his experience and tactical understanding remain invaluable.
The Question of England
Ali McCoist’s exciting and humorous commentary suggested that Ronaldo wouldn’t make it into the English squad for the European Championship due to his declining pace and agility, a reality for many aging athletes. This stark comparison underscores the rigorous standards expected at international levels and serves as a metaphor for Ronaldo’s current phase in his career.
Portugal’s Strategy Moving Forward
Portugal has advanced to the knockout stages of their current tournament as the winners of their group, with Ronaldo still a crucial part of their strategy. Coach Martinez may rotate the squad in the upcoming games, giving rest to key players and chances to fringe players, potentially seeing Ronaldo starting from the bench. This strategy could allow fresh talents to shine while preserving Ronaldo for crucial moments that might benefit from his vast experience.
The Future
The twilight of Ronaldo’s career might see him playing for fewer minutes, but his role could evolve into a mentorship position. He could guide. He could guide younger players while still being crucial to Portugal’s tactical setups in important matches. His enduring dedication to the sport and his ability to adapt could see him continue to contribute meaningfully, albeit in a different capacity than before.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey through professional football has been nothing short of spectacular. As the “old man of time” creeps up on him, the 2024 European Championship could be one of his final appearances in a major tournament. Whether he starts on the field or supports from the sidelines, his legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time remains untouched. His future with Portugal might be in a supporting role, but his impact on the game will reverberate for generations to come. As Portugal progresses through the tournament, all eyes will be on Ronaldo, not just for what he does during the game, but for the legacy he continues to build off it.
