Cristiano Ronaldo responds to suggestions urging Portugal to bench him at Euro 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed that he will respect manager Roberto Martinez's decision if he benches him at EURO 2024. He wants to help Portugal go all the way in the tournament and is ready to help as and when needed.
Speaking to the media, Ronaldo stated that he was ready for EURO 2024. He added that the plan is to be ready to help on the pitch, and he was not pushing to start every game. He said (via Metro):
"The most important thing is that I am well physically and psychologically. I am prepared, I always prepare in the best way. I will be ready as always to help our country and respect the coach's decisions. The thought has to be that [winning the Euros], be positive, take it step by step. Dreaming is free and this team has the talent to dream. Nothing can be achieved without work, we have to work and fight."
Cristiano Ronaldo was benched by Fernando Santos at the FIFA World Cup and that saw an uproar among fans. The coach eventually resigned after they were knocked out by Morocco in the quarterfinal.
Cristiano Ronaldo unsure about future in football
Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that he is unsure about how much longer he can continue playing. He stated that the years after turning 35 are always a gift, but he is still enjoying himself at the age of 39.
He said:
"I know I don't have many years of football left. It's a gift to play year after year, after 35. I'm 39 and every year is about enjoying [myself]. To score for the national team is special. The national team is the love of my life, winning the Euros would be a dream.
"For me, playing for the national team is a passion, a love. Any game is special, a European Championship is special, it will be my sixth, which is also a record. Playing in 2004, when I made my debut, or playing today, the feeling is always of pride and passion. It doesn't get any better than this."
Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal begin their EURO 2024 campaign against the Czech Republic on Tuesday (June 18) before taking on Turkey and Georgia in the other group stage matches.