Despite reaching the age of 37 and full of Cristiano Ronaldo’s achievements, he is pushing the boundaries of an iconic player adored by football fans as he is considered a role model for a new generation in the Portuguese national team during their match against the Czech Republic in Lisbon in the Group B competition for the third round UEFA Nations League.

The Portugal captain has international recognition to inspire newcomers: 188 caps and 117 goals, world record, 9 major finals, Euro 2016 win…

Despite all these accomplishments, CR7 always presents himself as a star who is unhappy with everything that has been achieved, as evidenced by his quartet counterpart who won Switzerland 4-0 on Sunday and took Portugal to the top of the group by 4 points, with a goal difference of Czech Republic, after a draw with Spain 1-1 opening.

– “Difficult to replace” –

On the eve of the expected match, Portugal head coach Fernando Santos said during a press conference that it would be “difficult” to replace Ronaldo in the football world.

He said: “It is difficult for any footballer to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, not only in Portugal, but all over the world, like other important players.”

Ronaldo confirmed on social media that he has “great pride and confidence” in the Portuguese team.

The five-time World’s Best Ballon d’Or winner regularly talks about his connection to Selesão and his comrades, but at times seemed weary during European qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

In that context, Diogo Dalo, 23, his Manchester United and international teammate, told Sky Sports last month: “When he feels he can trust you, he gives his 100 per cent. It is always a great advantage to have such a player and person. in the locker room”.

– ‘Unite All’ –

Several newcomers to the Portugal national team have praised Ronaldo’s key role in their integration.

“He loves to bring everyone together and has helped a lot by being part of the team,” Atlético Madrid attacking midfielder Joao Felix told Eleven Sports in February 2020.

“He is an example for the whole team,” the 22-year-old added in another interview with World Soccer magazine in March 2021. “Excellent captain, always ready to give advice. Before the Nations League game, he told me to keep calm and have fun.”

Of all the young players, Ronaldo has a special relationship with Dalo.

– ‘My friend Dallo’ –

During exercises, the two “red devils” often appear together.

Ronaldo wrote on social media: “Focus on daily goals, enjoy moments with friends. Great training with my friend Dalo!”

For his part, Dalo said in May: “It has helped me a lot to work with someone who has this kind of work culture, this kind of professionalism, this kind of mindset and being able to be around him.”

Ronaldo has repeatedly said throughout his career that he wants to play until the age of forty, and in March, when asked when he would retire, assured that he would be the only one who decides to stop playing football.