Cristiano Ronaldo’s former trainer, Leonel Pontes says the COVID-19 break will help the Portuguese captain recharge his batteries.
Speaking with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pontes said this could even make him stronger and fitter for Juventus.
Juventus is currently topping the Serie A log with 63 points from 32 games with Lazio a point behind them while Inter Milan that is third has 54 points with two games in hand.
The Juventus forward has returned to his home in Madeira after the coronavirus pandemic halted footballing activities in Italy and across the world, except Belarus. Italy has the highest number of casualties from the virus, with a plethora of deaths from the over 51,000 people that have died globally.
Noting Ronaldo’s age, Pontes said the rest would help him recharge his batteries, retain the hunger and desire to play more.
Pontes, who is also a talent scout, noted that the former Real Madrid talisman is an excellent player at 35 because he still maintains his level of consistency. This, he said that the Portugues is a phenomenal player that has been in top shape for many years despite changing countries, teams, and positions.
Ronaldo, during the present campaign, has scored 25 goals in 32 games for Juve with four assists from 2837 minutes of football action apart from his international duty with Portugal.
It could be recalled that Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane had in 2017 said the same thing.
Speaking at a press conference, the Frenchman said he had such conversation with the Portugues, adding that he’s a brilliant player, who understands his body.
Zizou added that he aimed to have Ronaldo fit throughout the season, adding that he deserves to rest after playing 20 games in 70 days. This, he said, is needed by him from time to time.
He further stated that they both see it that way, but he always wants to play.
However, with the enforced break, Ronaldo, who has maintained an undoubtedly high level of consistency ever in football, has no choice than to rest this time around and enjoy it.
Written by: Oladipupo Mojeed
