Ronaldo at it again

Oh dear! Cristiano Ronaldo is at it again. Even though the ink has yet to dry on his 80 million pound move to Real Madrid from Manchester United, the World Player of the Year is winding everyone up. And does he know how to do so. In an interview with a French magazine, provided everyone got the translation right, he apparently reveals that he loves antagonism.

He’s reported to have said “I do not care whether opposition supporters like me or not. I love it when people jeer me. It doesn’t bother me.” Well, fair enough. Everyone gets their motivation from somewhere. Whether it’s praise from the supporters or the manager, a few little digs from the national press, scoring goals, picking up silverware or a regular place in the team.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made no bones about the fact that he likes to be in the international spotlight, one of his reasons for moving to Real Madrid. After all, there will be no greater stage as new president Florentino Perez bids to build the greatest football team in the world. Perhaps Ronaldo believes his new world record-breaking status earns him the right to put himself right up their on the highest pedestal. But he won’t be endearing himself to everyone and we can expect some fireworks on and off the pitch.

Football enthusiasts will well remember the 2006 World Cup when he was targeted by fans for his part in the sending off of Wayne Rooney during England’s match against Portugal. Ronaldo says “It’s true a lot of people hate me but there are even more who love me. I feel bad only when I play bad. But for me, that does not happen very often. I want to rewrite the history of football. I am aware I am already among the best of the best.”

Wow. What an ego. Although there will be many raised eyebrows at his comments, most people will be able to shrug them off and have a bit of a laugh at his expense. He’s a great player, yes, and we will excuse him if diplomacy is not one of his strongest points. But there was one further comment in his interview which was out of order. “I love to see the hate in their eyes, to hear the insults.” Is this really the attitude we want to foster? Hate is a very strong word and not something which should be encouraged in football. Better to have a healthy respect for our rival teams.

Football today is all about families and encouraging children to follow the sport. When they read about one of their heroes welcoming insults and talking about hate, what sort of message does this send out? Clubs around the country are clamping down on thugs or fans who use bad language. It will not help matters if top players like Ronaldo simply add fuel to the fire. So come on Ronaldo. Have a think next time you are interviewed. Yes, talk about motivation and how you want to do the best for your players and your team. You have left one proud club to go to another with a long pedigree which prides itself on ethics and standards. Cut out the talk about hate and insults and show your determination where it matters most. On the pitch.