Super-agent, Jorge Mendes, has named Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest player in the history of football.
He also said he references the careers of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to provide guidance for young athletes.
The Portuguese agent emphasized that maintaining discipline off the field is essential for achieving greatness in the sport.
Mendes has represented Cristiano Ronaldo for an extended period and stressed that young players should look up to the Portuguese icon and his long-time rival, Lionel Messi.
He encouraged aspiring athletes to adopt a humble lifestyle and adhere to strict discipline if they wish to emulate these two legends.
As reported by Goal, Mendes stated, “Typically, I engage with my players and ask them: ‘Do you aspire to be like Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi off the field as well, or do you prefer to be…?’. I will refrain from naming individuals, but that illustrates the distinction.
“I view myself as very fortunate. Cristiano is the greatest player in the history of football and simultaneously serves as the best role model off the pitch. This is the example we should convey to the younger generation.
“Often, we do not select the largest club, but rather the environment where they can play and develop. Joining a lower division may be more beneficial if it allows for playing time.
“Without opportunities, talent becomes irrelevant. Numerous players falter because they lack the appropriate context.
“They may spend a year or two without playing, leading to the perception that they are not skilled, but the issue lies not in talent, but in opportunity.”
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have dominated European and global football for nearly two decades. The two have set numerous records at the individual level and have secured countless trophies for both their clubs and national teams, collectively winning 13 Ballon d’Or awards.