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They reveal the difficulty of defending Cristiano Ronaldo: "Even at 40 years old, if you give him half a second you're lost"
Mar 25 2026 19:10 · By RYAN MITCHELL · 20 Reads
C ristiano Ronaldo is an example for the new generations of soccer players. There are some young players who grew up watching him on television and now face him. In the first place, they idolize him. Secondly, they suffer when they have him as a rival because he is a player who is not so easy to mark.
Nathan Zeze, a French defender for Saudi Arabia's Neom Sports Club, fulfilled a dream at the age of 20: to play against the world football genius. But taking off his fan role and putting on his professional shirt, the Frenchman recognises that 'El Bicho' can change the pace of the game in a second or completely alter the opposing team's defensive scheme.
I'm on team CR7; I used to watch him on TV, support him, have his shirts and marking him in a game was exceptional. Even at 40 years old, you have to stay focused because when the ball comes close to the box, if you give him half a second, you lose it. When he gets into it, it's difficult
Zeze comments that you should never write off a veteran, let alone a footballer of Cristiano's level. He points out that there are great players who were born with the gift of handling the ball and only need one move to change the course of history.
How serious is Cristiano Ronaldo's injury?
Cristiano Ronaldo suffered a hamstring injury on February 28 during the match between Al Nassr and Al Fayha in the Saudi Pro League. Since then, the Portuguese striker has worked on his recovery to return to the pitch as soon as possible, as his priority is to be present at the 2026 World Cup.
Roberto Martinez, Portugal coach, has confidence in Cristiano
The coach of the Portuguese national team knows that the star is a disciplined and very professional player, so he is fully focused on his rehabilitation. The coach has blind faith that he will be in good shape for the World Cup, so he does not interfere in his recovery plan.
No, he's not in danger. It's a minor muscle injury and we think he can be back in a week or two. Everything Cristiano has done physically this season shows that he is in great shape