Cristiano Ronaldo at 40: Rise to Real Madrid legend
Feb 4, 2025
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Mark Ogden, a football reporter with deep ties to Manchester United, shares insights on Cristiano Ronaldo's evolution under Sir Alex Ferguson. Rob Dawson discusses Ronaldo's stunning arrival and adaptation in the Premier League. Graham Hunter and Rodrigo Faez dive into Ronaldo's electrifying debut at Real Madrid, exploring the intense pressure he faced. They reflect on the dynamics between Ronaldo and coaches, especially Ancelotti's role in uniting a powerhouse squad, and the complexities behind his record-breaking run at Madrid.
Cristiano Ronaldo's transformation from a promising teenager at Manchester United to a global star was significantly influenced by Sir Alex Ferguson's mentorship and supportive teammates.
Wearing the legendary number seven shirt at Manchester United became a pivotal moment for Ronaldo, solidifying his confidence and driving him to exceed expectations.
The tension between Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid's president Florentino Pérez highlighted the complexities of player relationships within elite football, ultimately leading to Ronaldo's departure after a successful nine-year tenure.
Deep dives
Cristiano Ronaldo's Rise to Stardom at Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo's journey began at Manchester United, where he was signed in 2003 as a replacement for David Beckham. The club admired his talent during a pre-season friendly against Sporting Lisbon, where he showcased extraordinary skills that caught the attention of key players like Roy Keane and Ryan Giggs. Upon joining, Ronaldo initially struggled with adapting to the Premier League's physicality, but under the mentorship of seasoned teammates, he learned to refine his game. His unwavering dedication was evident as he trained with added ankle weights, demonstrating his commitment to becoming a top player, self-assuredly proclaiming he would be the best.
The Importance of the Number Seven Shirt
Receiving the iconic number seven shirt at Manchester United was a pivotal moment for Ronaldo, following in the footsteps of legends like Eric Cantona and David Beckham. Though initially surprised, he embraced the pressure, showcasing skills that quickly overwhelmed Premier League defenses. Teammates noted that Ronaldo's confidence in donning the shirt mirrored his determination, which fueled his development into a household name. As he performed spectacularly, the number seven came to symbolize his growing status, ultimately becoming synonymous with his brand and legacy.
Transformational Relationships with Coaches
Ronaldo's evolution at Manchester United was greatly influenced by his relationships with coaches, primarily Sir Alex Ferguson, who acted as both mentor and father figure. Ferguson recognized Ronaldo's immense talent and allowed him a degree of freedom that other players might not have received, fostering an environment where he could flourish. In contrast, earlier experiences with coaches who restricted his play led Ronaldo to advocate for his personal style. This dynamic, characterized by mutual respect and understanding, propelled Ronaldo to unprecedented success within the club.
Transition to Real Madrid and the Birth of a Rivalry
In 2009, Ronaldo’s move to Real Madrid marked a new chapter as he sought to elevate his career further on the global stage. The transfer not only intensified the rivalry with Lionel Messi but also coincided with an era where both players dominated European football. Under different coaches, Ronaldo adapted his playing style, transitioning from a flamboyant winger to a lethal forward, consistently achieving record-breaking stats. His tenure at Madrid solidified his legacy, culminating in multiple Champions League titles and individual accolades, while his rivalry with Messi became the benchmark for future generations.
Clashing Personalities and the End of an Era
Despite incredible success, Ronaldo's relationship with Real Madrid soured due to clashes with president Florentino Pérez and issues surrounding his contract. Compounded by tax troubles, Ronaldo felt undervalued, leading to his departure in 2018 after a historic nine years with the club. The dynamic between Ronaldo and Pérez reflected the harsh realities of business at elite football clubs, where even legends can feel disposable. Ultimately, Ronaldo's exit signaled the end of an era at Real Madrid, characterized by extraordinary personal achievements and a tumultuous relationship with the club's hierarchy.
In the first of a two-part special, The Football Reporters assembles those who followed Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey the closest to discuss his rise from talented teenager to Madrid megastar.
Joining Alexis Nunes are Mark Ogden and Rob Dawson to discuss Ronaldo’s first stint at Manchester United, and the impact of Sir Alex Ferguson and others on his development from a skinny boy to a goal machine, before Gab Marcotti, Graham Hunter and Rodrigo Faez look back on an era of unprecedented success at Real Madrid.
