Hugo Oliveira added that Ronaldo is still hungry to increase his impressive goal tally, and that ambition could well see him surpass the 1,000 career goal mark.
Ronaldo will play his sixth World Cup.
Oliveira worked with the Portuguese captain during qualifying for the 2010 World Cup and saw that even then he possessed the mentality of a great player. Ronaldo was 25 when Oliveira knew him best, but that competitive spirit has always run deep in the striker, who won five Champions Leagues and a European Championship, among a host of domestic titles.
The only trophy Ronaldo is still missing in his near-perfect career is the World Cup. At 40, Ronaldo will likely have one last chance to lift the golden trophy at next year’s tournament, which will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He has often expressed his desire to complete his collection of titles.
This tournament will mark Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup, with the Al-Nassr striker still in top form during qualifying. In addition to breaking a new record by becoming the player who scored the most goals in qualifying for the World Cup, Ronaldo has already helped his country qualify for the tournament several games ahead.
Ronaldo’s continued success is a testament to his mentality, and Oliveira believes the legendary number seven is still hungry for wins.
Oliveira lifts the veil on Ronaldo’s mentality
Asked by GiveMeSport why Ronaldo is still performing at such a high level at 40, Oliveira explained: “ Because he is always hungry for victories. He is always hungry for victories. He is starving.
“He was young, and he still is. This state of mind could be contagious for the Portuguese national team. Perhaps his last World Cup would be an extraordinary way for him to conclude his international career with Portugal.
Portugal will have one of the strongest squads in the competition and great bench depth in almost every position. The former coach believes his country has as good a chance as any other and should challenge for the title.
“ I think we have a generation that has to fight for victory. We are among the five best national teams who will fight to win the title,” he declared.
