Cristiano Ronaldo has delivered a defiant message to his critics ahead of Portugal’s World Cup last-16 clash with Spain on Monday at Dallas Stadium.
The 41-year-old addressed the media before the high-stakes tie, acknowledging openly that he is no longer the player he once was.
“I am not the player I used to be,” Ronaldo said, but he remained characteristically unapologetic when pressed further about the criticism surrounding his performances.
When asked about his future and recent attacks on his form, Ronaldo fired back with a memorable response directed squarely at those who have questioned him.
“You have been trying to kill me for the past 23 years, but you must have seen that is not worth it, it’s a waste of time, but you try and try and try and try and try,” he told reporters.
Ronaldo confirmed once again that this tournament in the United States and Canada will be his final World Cup, but expressed hope that Monday’s game against Spain would not be his last.
“This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game,” he added, drawing applause as he departed the news conference.
The five-time Champions League winner has scored three goals at this tournament, though his performances have divided opinion among supporters, pundits, and former players alike.
Former Portugal international Antonio Simoes, a member of the Portugal squad that finished third at the 1966 World Cup, has been among those questioning Ronaldo’s role within the team.
“He doesn’t play to win, he plays to be the main figure,” Simoes argued, drawing a pointed comparison with the legendary Eusebio.
“Do you understand that it’s the opposite of Eusebio? Let’s call things by their name. I have nothing against him. I can still see, I can still hear and I can still think. But I can’t run away from the reality of the facts,” Simoes added.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has continued to back his captain despite the growing debate, insisting Ronaldo’s contribution to the team remains significant.
“His leadership and that work in the final third is still one of the best in the world,” Martinez said when asked about his decision to keep starting the veteran forward.
Against Croatia in the last 32, Ronaldo equalised from the penalty spot before being substituted, with substitute Goncalo Ramos ultimately sending Portugal through in a dramatic finish.
Ronaldo’s statistics at this tournament raise legitimate questions, as he has had 15 shots, almost twice as many as any team-mate, yet has not created a single chance for others.
He is also averaging his lowest number of touches per match at any World Cup he has participated in, a striking indicator of his reduced involvement in the overall play.
Despite the statistics, Portugal fans have shown no sign of wavering in their devotion, with Ronaldo-mania reaching extraordinary levels across the tournament’s host cities.
Fan Joao captured the sentiment of many supporters when he said: “On the world stage we didn’t really have anyone after Eusebio. Ronaldo came in and made us dream.”
Fellow supporter Lucilia was equally passionate, stating: “People talk about Portugal because of him. He doesn’t forget where he’s from, he remembers the people. I love him. Ronaldo means more to Portugal than any politician.”
Ronaldo himself remained reflective yet resolute when considering his legacy, insisting he has given everything to his country throughout a remarkable international career.
“Whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano Ronaldo will leave with a clear conscience – not 100% but 1,000% because in life and football I gave everything,” he said.
