Who doesn’t love alliteration?
No matter how you say it, or in what language, bottom line is Cristiano Ronaldo has got to take a break.
That knee injury, that at one point seemed career threatening, nearly forced him to miss out on playing the Champions League final in his home country. It then ruined his country’s entire World Cup.
He returned for the preseason in reported tip top shape. Then he was a doubt to play in the Spanish Super Copa. But then he played, well 90 minutes over two legs, and opened his La Liga campaign on Monday with a goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the game. He has been, at least one of, for the last eight years. But if he does not sit out and actually allow his body to heal, he will lose that title in no time.
I don’t blame the club for continuing to play him. I blame him.
Ronaldo has a relentless work ethic and an undying passion to play. Fair guess is that unless he required amputation, he’s going to take the pitch. He needs to be told to sit out.
I have this theory that athletes that become superstars at a young age play shorter careers. The earlier a guy reaches an elite level, the earlier his body will break down.
Think about it. Bo Jackson. Eric Lindros (slightly different circumstance I know). Former Denver Broncos running back Terrell Davis. But the best example of all, is Michael Owen.
Am I right? Are we witnessing the decline of Cristiano Ronaldo at the age of 29? I sure hope not.
Real Madrid were unconvincing in their season opening win over Cordoba on Monday but with their depth and options would be fine on all fronts giving Ronaldo a month off.
Do it Carlo. Not just for your club’s sake, but for the game as a whole.
Dunlop's Daily Dose 