Cristiano Ronaldo has said he will walk away from football with a clear conscience whenever his career comes to an end, insisting he has already given everything he had to the game.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s Round of 16 clash against Spain, the veteran forward suggested that many people are eager to see him leave the sport, but maintained that he remains at peace with his journey regardless of what happens next.
“You guys are eager for me to leave, aren’t you? You don’t want to see me here anymore. The day will come, the day will come,” Ronaldo told reporters.
The Portugal captain said he would have no regrets when he eventually steps away from football, describing his commitment to both club and country as total.
“No matter what happens tomorrow(today against Spain), Cristiano will leave here with a clear conscience. But not 100 per cent, but 1000 per cent,” he said.
“Because in life, in football, I’ve given everything I had. My passion, my desire to play all these years, it wasn’t out of necessity, as you know.”
Ronaldo said financial security had never been the driving force behind his career, stressing that his motivation has always been his love for football.
“Thank God, I’m doing very well in life. But it’s the passion. I play in the national team and in the clubs because I love playing football.”
The 41 year old also dismissed the idea that he was carrying the burden of having to win trophies at the closing stages of his career.
“I can’t put pressure on myself to get to the end of my career, and know that I have to win, that I have the obligation to win. No, no.”
Instead, Ronaldo said he was focused on enjoying every moment on the pitch and embracing the experience of competing at the highest level.
“It’s enjoying every day, enjoying every match, enjoying a great competition like the World Cup.”
Responding to criticism over his performances, Ronaldo pointed to his contribution in front of goal and insisted he still had plenty to offer.
“I believe, apart from some different opinions from you, that I’m not that bad. I’ve already scored three goals. There are others who have scored more because they’re doing very well. But I’m not bad.”
Ronaldo added that he remained confident ahead of the meeting with Spain and hoped to make another decisive contribution for Portugal.
“I believe. I believe. I have to keep going. Let’s see if I win tomorrow and score a goal.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
