Former Tottenham coach Harry Redknapp believes Cristiano Ronaldo remains in peak condition, attributing it to his exceptional self-care and leadership abilities, positioning him as Portugal’s key figure for Euro 2024.
“Ronaldo may be playing at a different level in Saudi Arabia, but his greatness endures,” Redknapp remarked on Bet Victor on June 4. “His excellent self-care ensures he continues to perform at a high level. I’m confident Ronaldo will score goals and lead Portugal deep into the Euro this year.”
In 2023, Ronaldo will still be the player with the most goals. The 39-year-old striker scored a total of 54 goals for Al Nassr Club, Saudi Arabia and the Portuguese national team.
In the last 2023-2024 season, Ronaldo also finished as the top scorer. He scored 50 goals in 51 games for Al Nassr, including a record 35 goals in the Saudi Pro League.
In addition to Ronaldo, Redknapp also appreciates many other Portuguese players. He believes that midfielder Bruno Fernandes can compete for the title of the Euro’s top scorer, although he mainly plays in midfield.
“Portugal has a lot of quality players,” Redknapp added. “Apart from England, they are the championship candidates I choose.”
Ronaldo and Portugal won their first European Championship in 2016. At that time, Portugal beat hosts France 1-0 in the final. But after the tournament eight years ago, CR7 and his teammates continually disappointed. They were eliminated by Uruguay in the round of 16 of the 2018 World Cup, lost 0-1 to Belgium in the round of 16 of Euro 2021 and lost 0-1 to Morocco in the quarterfinals of the 2022 World Cup.
Ronaldo still holds the record for scoring goals and competing at international level. He has played in Portugal since 2003 and has scored 128 goals in 206 games.
Portugal will play three Euro 2024 Group F matches against the Czech Republic on August 18, Turkey on June 22 and Georgia on June 26. The tournament includes 24 teams divided into six groups and will be held in Germany. The two best teams in each group and the four best third-placed teams will advance to the 1/8 round.
