Jorge Valdano advises Cristiano Ronaldo to enjoy football
By OnzeActu · · 4 min read
Jorge Valdano, emblematic figure of football and ex-Real coach, spoke about the situation of Cristiano Ronaldo after the elimination of Portugal in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. He encourages the five-time Ballon d'Or to continue to live his passion without giving in to hasty judgments about the time to retire.
Why it matters
Cryштиану Роналду's career is at the heart of debate after Portugal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Jorge Valdano's thoughts on the retirement of football legends highlight the importance of living your passion to the fullest, even in the face of criticism. This could influence Ronaldo's decision on his future, both on and off the pitch.
Context
Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, has recently been criticized after a disappointing run with Portugal in the 2026 World Cup. His time at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia has raised questions about his form and longevity in professional football, especially after setting a dismal record at that tournament.
Key points
- Jorge Valdano advises Cristiano Ronaldo to enjoy football.
- Jorge Valdano, emblematic football figure and ex-Real coach, spoke about the situation of Cristiano Ronaldo after the elimination of Portugal in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
- “You can watch football in the next stadium”. Вальдано — о завершении карьеры Роналду.
“I advise all footballers to enjoy football until the last drop,” said Valdano, while recalling that leaving the field “at the right time” remains a subjective notion. According to him, this myth is “false” and the history of football has often proven that the prestige of legends does not fade following the end of their career far from the European spotlight. Valdano cites the example of Johan Cruyff (who ended up at Levante), Pelé (who left for Cosmos), and Maradona (who had a brief stint at Newell's Old Boys). “Cruyff remains Cruyff, Pelé remains Pelé, and Maradona remains Maradona,” he insists, insisting on the longevity of the legend, regardless of the last page written.
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The last World Cup did not smile on Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41 years old and playing for Al-Nassr, in Saudi Arabia. Not only was Portugal knocked out (0-1) by Spain in the round of 16, but the Lusitanian captain also set a sad record, symbolizing the difficulty of the immense champions to give in to the passing of time. However, for Valdano, this episode cannot tarnish a unique career. The former Real coach invites Ronaldo, but also other legends, to pursue their passion as long as the desire remains, far from considerations about "an ideal exit" which would haunt the story of idols.
While the 2026 World Cup may have marked Ronaldo's final appearance on the international stage, the debate over the best way to leave the top flight is dividing football fans across the world. The words of Jorge Valdano invite a more nuanced reflection: respect the choice of champions, and accept that greatness is not measured by the chronology of farewells, but by the wake left behind.
The rest
As Ronaldo continues to play for Al-Nassr, it is likely that he will take time to think about his future after the World Cup. Valdano's advice could push him to extend his career, despite doubts about his performance. Fans and analysts will closely follow his next decisions and performances.
Frequently asked questions
What happened with Cristiano Ronaldo at the 2026 World Cup?
Portugal was eliminated by Spain in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
Who advised Cristiano Ronaldo on his career?
Jorge Valdano, former Argentinian international and ex-Real Madrid coach, advised Cristiano Ronaldo.
Why is Jorge Valdano talking about Ronaldo retiring now?
Valdano speaks out on Ronaldo's retirement after Portugal's elimination, as questions about the end of his career emerge.
What changes does Valdano suggest for footballers like Ronaldo?
V
aldano suggests footballers enjoy football to the last drop and questions the idea of leaving the field 'at the right time'.
How old is Cristiano Ronaldo now?
Cristiano Ronaldo is 41 years old.