Cristiano Ronaldo’s exploits for Real Madrid this season had a direct impact on his performance at the World Cup, according to Los Blancos legend Raul.
Ronaldo was at his very best once again this year, scoring 51 goals for his club and helping them securing the historic 10th European Cup as well as the Copa del Rey. He set a new goalscoring record in the Champions League, and picked up the Ballon d’Or award too – the second time he has won that in his career.
But Raul said in his column for The Times of India that the 29-year-old had given so much for Los Blancos that he had nothing left in the tank when it came to the World Cup.
Portugal crashed out in the group stages, losing 4-0 to Germany, drawing with the USA, and defeating Ghana in the final match. Ronaldo was clearly not at 100% but did manage to find the back of the net in the last game against the African nation.
Raul wrote: “The World Cup will not see the world’s best player beyond the group stage and that is sad. Ronaldo was undoubtedly the player of the season, having helped Real Madrid to a 10th European title, scoring 17 goals in 11 Champions League matches, and breaking all records.
“But as we have seen so many times in the last few years, club commitments once again took its toll on a superstar and football’s biggest show missed a chance to see him in full flow.”
Agree as with other players if some are to stay with Madrid another season will need to raise their tempo. Spain at best looked tired with no direction from the old guard To maintain the high standards.
Team Work rate has to remain high tempo sadly we are towards a slow down in age and pace the pass rate was nowhere near Top performance. Pressure and hard club season takes its Toll lets hope Months Holiday gets the Mojo up and running or by Christmas there will be few heads out the Madrid club door.
Short work rates do not win Games! Possession, Control,Skill Speed and Team effort Ronaldo (The King)3 more years Tops at the High End of His Career its Intensity of his efforts on the pitch under the spotlight of scrutiny. as with all the Other Team Players. Twilight Zone for Some.