ANTONIO ROMERO

Cristiano Ronaldo: the change to a 'number 9'

The Club World Cup final against Kashima was another great example of what's now an open secret, the Real Madrid forward is turning into a centre-forward. <a title="New Zealand vs Portugal live online, 2017 Confederations Cup" href="http://en.as.com/en/2017/06/24/football/1498295411_523316.html">New Zealand-Portugal live</a>

Antonio Romero
Update:

Ronaldo's move to centre-forward

Real Madrid's Club World Cup final win against valient Japanese side Kashima Antlers was another clear example of what's an open secret: Cristiano Ronaldo is turning into a number 9. The Portuguese striker was having a disastrous game, with a complete lack of energy in his runs (that used to be unstoppable), and only came into the match when he dedicated himself to playing in the box.

Cristiano Ronaldo: the change to a 'number 9'
Ronaldo turns, shoots and scores in the box for Real Madrid during the FIFA Club World Cup 2016 final.KIYOSHI OTA

Ronaldo has to accept a diminished role in the build-up  

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If Cristiano is able to accept his diminishing role in build-up and focus entirely on scoring, he's going to use up a lot less energy, for the same reward.

Zidane has to help persuade Ronaldo

Zidane, who Cristiano utterly respects, is going to be decisive in persuading Ronaldo, and Real Madrid's fans need to get used to seeing another kind of player: less explosive, less spectacular, but just as lethal for the Spanish side. And, what's more, longer-lived. 

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