“He represents what you can dream and achieve” - Portugal star hypes up Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Euro 2024 opening game
Ruben Dias has spoken glowingly of Cristiano Ronaldo and how his longevity is an example for others ahead of Portugal's Euro 2024 opener against Czechia. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner is set to represent his nation in his 11th major international tournament.
Dias talked up Selecao das Quinas' captain's durability given he'll lead the 2016 European Champions at the age of 39. The Manchester City told Portuguese outlet O Jogo:
"He is an inspiration. He represents what you can dream and achieve. It's a pleasure to have him with us. Him being with us at this moment in his career represents that he wants to be here with us, he will be here until the end. He’s our captain."
Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, has been arguably the greatest player in Portuguese football history. He debuted on the international scene at age 18 in August 2003 and has since become the greatest goalscorer in international football history.
The Al-Nassr superstar has registered 130 goals and 46 assists in 207 caps. He won Euro 2016 with Portugal and finished top scorer at Euro 2012 and Euro 2020.
Selecao are one of the favorites to win Euro 2024 and they start their campaign in Group F against Czechia tomorrow (June 18). Roberto Martinez's men then clash with Turkiye (June 22) and Georgia (June 26).
Ronaldo is eyeing more trophy success with his national team as he continues to roll back the years. He's expected to be in the Euro 2024 Golden Boot race after a remarkable past year where he finished as the top scorer in 2023 (54 goals).
"Respect the coach's decisions" - Cristiano Ronaldo on a potential sub role at Euro 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo was adamant he'd accept any decision Martinez makes over his game time in Germany for Euro 2024. There have been suggestions Portugal's all-time top scorer could be a sub during the tournament (via Metro):
"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 used as a sub during the 2022 FIFA World Cup after Goncalo Ramos came into former manager Fernando Santos' XI. The five-time UEFA Champions League winner finished the campaign with one goal in five games.
Many thought Ronaldo's international career was over after Portugal crashed out of the World Cup. They suffered a 1-0 loss to 10-man Morocco in the quarterfinals and the legendary forward didn't enter the fray until the 51st minute.