Football News: Ronaldo’s Valuable Leadership Shines Through for Portugal at Euro 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo, the veteran striker for the Portuguese national team, continues to prove his worth both on and off the pitch as Portugal make their push for glory at Euro 2024. Former teammate and defender Jose Fonte has shed light on the experienced captain’s invaluable influence within the national team setup.
“I always laugh when I hear stories and rumors about how Cristiano Ronaldo is a disruptive presence in the Portugal camp, because that’s all they are – stories,” said Fonte, who played alongside Ronaldo for eight years with the national team. “What I do know is that he is not just a great professional himself, he also tries to help everyone else in the squad.”
Fonte revealed that Ronaldo’s commitment to excellence serves as a driving force for the entire team.
“Even just observing him would give you ideas of what you should be doing to be successful, but when you are with Cristiano you get so much more than that.”
As the squad’s captain, the 39-year-old forward has been a vocal leader, pushing his teammates to match his relentless work ethic.
“He would lead, and we would follow,” Fonte recalled. “I can remember us all doing ice baths and saunas at 2am because of him and, as well as helping our physical recovery, the important thing is that we were doing them together, the whole squad.”
Fonte, who was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016 triumph, emphasized Ronaldo’s willingness to share his wealth of knowledge and experience with the team.
“He will talk about anything you ask him because he wants to improve you and the team, and it makes it a good environment to work in.”
The defender praised Ronaldo’s unparalleled mentality, which has been the driving force behind his sustained success at the highest level.
“Mentally, he is unbeatable. It is why he has won so much and done so much, and out of everything that makes him the player and person he is, I would say it is his greatest strength.”
As Portugal aim to repeat their Euro 2016 heroics, Fonte is confident that Ronaldo’s leadership and influence will play a pivotal role.
“I am so pleased he is still part of the Portugal squad now and still pushing for more. We are lucky to have him and other great players like Pepe who have been there and won everything to pass it on to the younger boys because that knowledge is vital.”
With Ronaldo’s guidance and the team’s strong camaraderie, Portugal will be hoping to secure their second European Championship title at Euro 2024.
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