"Cristiano will always be the killer, whether he is playing in Saudi or Europe" - Ex-Portugal star makes claim about Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Euros
Former Portugal international Ricardo Quaresma has backed former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo to deliver at Euro 2024. The 39-year-old Al-Nassr forward will participate in his sixth Euro and will be keen to add to his sole winner's medal in the competition.
Ronaldo will arrive in Germany on the back of a sensational individual season with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, where he scored 44 goals in 45 appearances. The veteran forward scored a double for his country in their friendly win over the Republic of Ireland to conclude preparations for this summer's tournament.
Ricardo Quaresma spoke to O Jogo during the launch of his fashion collection, and he revealed what he thinks of Ronaldo, who he played alongside for many years. Quaresma clarified that he does not believe the Saudi league to be among the best, but he believes Ronaldo will still be able to produce the goods.
"Cristiano will always be the killer, whether he is playing in Saudi or Europe," he said. "They are completely different championships. As much as he says that Saudi is in the top five championships, I don't agree with that. I think that with Cristiano we have to be always expecting the best, regardless of whether he is playing in Saudi Arabia or in any other league. He is strong and it is this desire and determination that made him successful."
Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 14 goals in his previous appearances in the Euros, making him the competition's highest goalscorer. The Al-Nassr ace led his country to glory in France in 2016, and the Selecao are among the favorites to win the trophy this summer.
Cristiano Ronaldo teammate set to make history as Euro 2024 opener nears
Much has been made of Cristiano Ronaldo being set to appear in his sixth European Championship, but another of his teammates is also on the verge of history. Veteran defender Pepe will become the oldest player to ever play in the competition if he turns out for Portugal at any point in the tournament.
Hungarian goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly became the oldest player in the history of the competition when he played for his country against Belgium at Euro 2016. He was 40 years and 86 days old at the time, but Pepe could now break his record.
The former Real Madrid defender will be 41 years and three months old when the tournament begins and could feature for the Selecao. With Cristiano Ronaldo almost certain to become the oldest goalscorer in the tournament, Pepe will be looking for his own slice of history.