Portugal’s head coach, Roberto Martínez, has highlighted that the secret behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s long-lasting career is not only his talent, but also the combination of unique experience, relentless commitment, and tactical adaptation.
At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo has become the only player to appear in six European Championships and surpass 200 international appearances. According to Martínez, this makes him irreplaceable both in the locker room and on the field, where his contagious mentality and daily determination play a decisive role for the group.
The coach also underlined how Ronaldo has adjusted his playing style. He no longer depends on one-on-one duels but instead maximizes his impact through intelligent movements inside the box, reducing physical strain without losing his scoring power. This evolution has allowed him to remain competitive well beyond the age of 35.
The formula has proven successful: Portugal recently lifted another Nations League trophy, and Ronaldo has kept an impressive scoring rate, with 18 goals in 25 matches under Martínez’s leadership.
What is Ronaldo’s formula for success, according to Martínez?
It’s not magic, but a strategic trio: undeniable talent, wisdom gained through time, and a mentality that demands excellence both in training and in matches, setting a professional standard for the entire team.