“They Want to Show Me They’re Stronger”- Cristiano Ronaldo on Competing With Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe & Other Youngsters at 39

Cristiano Ronaldo is a perfect example of someone who ages fine like a wine. Age is just a number for the Portuguese superstar as even though he approaches his 40s, the Al Nassr star is showing hunger for competitiveness against fresh generational talents like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. So what’s the secret behind Ronaldo breaking norms and being in a ‘state of competition with the young lions’?

Luckily, we have the answer as CR7 recently sat down for a tête-à-tête with the WHOOP podcast. And it seems it isn’t as easy as it looks, even for a player like Ronaldo: “Life is a box of surprises, and it is difficult, not easy to be at this level, still push, motivate yourself and continue, score goals, and be in a state of competition with the young lions,” he said. Emphasizing the competition, he added, “They are coming and when they play against me they want to show me that they are stronger.”

Ronaldo insisted that playing at such an age is not just all about physical maintenance, which includes the gym, diet, and whatnot. Rather, mental preparedness is also required to push past the prime. Even though the journey has undoubtedly been tough for the former Real Madrid man, he embraces it as a challenge. “This is a great challenge for me, and it is a great thing, and I feel proud of that. Being at this age and still competing,” concluded the 39-year-old. 

Still scoring hat tricks or golazos is undoubtedly something to be proud of. Over the years, while some have hung up their boots before even hitting their prime, Ronaldo is still going strong. In fact, he might be in it for the long haul, following a recent development on the domestic front.

Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to be continuing his journey in Saudi Arabia!

Days ago, a report from journalist Ben Jacobs suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo is set to extend his stay at Al Nassr until 2026. The skipper currently has a contract with the Knights of the Najd until the summer of 2025. However, the Riyadh side is reportedly pondering on a decision to give the face of the team an additional year. This would give him enough time to achieve what he still hasn’t done for Al Nassr. 

Currently in his second season, the ex-Real Madrid star hasn’t managed to guide his team to any significant trophies. They lost the Roshn Saudi League title to Al Hilal and were also eliminated from the AFC Champions League and the Saudi Super Cup. However, there’s still a chance to salvage the season with a trophy, as they find themselves in the finals of the Kings Cup of Champions.

Rest assured, it would be epic if Ronaldo fulfills his time with Al Nassr winning major trophies and turns toward the next challenge. After all, that’s what distinguishes him from the rest.