WORLD CUP 2022
Cristiano Ronaldo says he doesn’t need to prove himself
The captain of Portugal appeared at a press conference ahead of the nation’s World Cup opener against Ghana.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of Portugal, appeared in front of the global media to analyse what the World Cup could hold for him and his nation. The Manchester United footballer wanted to silence the criticism that has been directed his way of late and was hopeful that he could have a good tournament.
Cristiano speaks ahead of World Cup 2022 debut
Ronaldo on his condition and World Cup memories
“I’m already recovered. I feel ready to start the World Cup in the best way and achieve my objectives.
“My memories are good, while others are not so good, but that’s like everything in life. The World Cups are something different. The world stops. Everyone wants to see you play and talk about the competition”.
Cristiano on Portugal’s chances and World Cup favourites
“We have enormous potential, but we have to think about Ghana and take it slowly. From there, we grow. If we are the best team, we will reach the final. The champion will be the best. We have youthful players, it’s a good mix.
“Brazil, Argentina, France are the ones that have the most chances… Spain, Germany… They are the ones that stand out most, also for the fans. But we already saw in 2016 that we are capable of surprising and imposing ourselves.”
Ronaldo on records and being the GOAT
“I don’t chase records, records come to me. Beating Eusebio would be special for it being Eusebio. But I don’t think about that, I think about winning the tournament.
“I don’t see things out there, some like me more and others less. Some prefer blondes, others brunettes. People say that I am at the end of my career… I am proud of what I have done. Obviously, winning a World Cup would not be bad.”
Cristiano on the timing of the Peers Morgan interview and his responsibility to Portugal
“It is easy to give an opinion from the other side, but the timing of the interview will not influence us. All the players know how I am and how I think. They will not be influenced. The group is unique and everyone wants to play. I don’t think they think otherwise because of this episode.
“It is my fifth World Cup. I have had responsibility since I was 12 years old when I left home. Now more eyes are on us, but I always have responsibility: as a player, as a friend, as a father... The pressure is always the same. Sometimes things go well, other times badly, but I feel qualified to take it on.”
Cristiano on proving himself
“If at 37 years and 8 months I still have to prove things, I would be worried… I respect people’s opinions. I want to have a great World Cup for my family, for my fans. I want to win, but if I don’t, I’ll be happy for what I’ve done.
“It would be magical to win. I am lacking nothing, I have everything. Winning the World Cup would be spectacular. But everyone wants to win and only one team can. We are going to work hard, focused on being able to be champions.”