Summary
Highlights
Ronaldo discusses his smooth adaptation to Saudi Arabia, highlighting the beautiful nature, spiritual sites like AlUla, and even snow in the mountains. He explains that having moved frequently since a young age, he's accustomed to new environments. He also defends the quality of the Saudi league, emphasizing its difficulty due to the heat and the continuous growth of football in the country.
Ronaldo explains that he felt no pressure being the first major star to join the Saudi league. He defines real pressure as dealing with war and lack of food, not football. He confidently states his belief in his ability to improve the league and that other players would follow, not just for financial reasons but also due to Saudi Arabia's football culture.
Ronaldo recounts the immense difficulty of leaving home at 11 years old to pursue his dream, describing it as the biggest turning point in his life. He credits this early suffering with making him more resilient and capable of handling pressure now, both in football and family life.
Ronaldo addresses criticism for showing emotion, particularly after missing a penalty, stating it stems from the immense self-pressure he places on himself to perform for his family and fans, not fear of external judgment. He emphasizes the importance of expressing true feelings rather than hiding them. He also dismisses those who claim he is 'finished,' focusing on his prolific goal-scoring record and consistent performance.
Ronaldo expresses his unchanging drive, stating that winning or losing doesn't diminish his motivation. He aims to reach 900 and then 1,000 career goals, highlighting his meticulous record-keeping with video proof for every goal. His competitive nature extends to his personal life, even with his children, whom he sees reflecting his own fierce spirit.
Ronaldo praises Real Madrid's consistent success, particularly in the Champions League, attributing it to their mental fortitude under pressure and the unique atmosphere of the Santiago Bernabéu. He considers it the best club in football history. He also discusses Kylian Mbappé's arrival, expecting him to thrive due to the club's solid structure, great coach, and long-serving president, predicting Mbappé will be a future Golden Ball winner alongside talents like Haaland and Bellingham.
Ronaldo shares his secret to longevity: maintaining enthusiasm, treating his body well, and having a strong mindset. He notes that while the body has memory, the mind becomes the critical factor in extending a career beyond the typical age of 30-34. He also compliments his former teammate Pepe for similar dedication, and discusses Tony Kroos's retirement, respecting his decision despite believing he could still play.
Ronaldo expresses his continued love for Manchester United and his desire for their success. He admits his return ended sourly but doesn't dwell on it. He criticizes the current coach's acknowledgment that the team can't compete for the Champions League or Premier League, arguing a Manchester United coach should always project ambition. He believes the club needs a complete rebuild, emphasizing the importance of bringing in people with deep football knowledge, like former players, to guide its resurgence.
Ronaldo observes that few young players seek advice, unlike his generation who learned from veterans like Gary Neville and Roy Keane. He sees immense potential in young talents like Lamine Yamal and Jude Bellingham, attributing their growth to supportive environments. He discusses his son, Cristiano Jr., who also wants to be a footballer, but Ronaldo avoids excessive pressure, providing guidance through example and experience rather than direct commands, recognizing the unique challenges his son faces as a result of his fame.
Ronaldo reflects on what he will miss most about football: the adrenaline of scoring goals and the nervousness of big moments. However, he sees retirement as an opportunity for new challenges in his business ventures. He emphasizes surrounding himself with smart people for success outside of football, acknowledging his intelligence in football but humility in other areas, and expressing excitement for this new chapter of his life.