Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has warned against underestimating Cristiano Ronaldo’s chances of scoring 1,000 goals.
The 39-year-old scored the 900th goal of his career in Portugal’s Nations League win over Croatia this week. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United player said after the game that he was not done yet, revealing he had “other dreams” to fulfil.
The prospect of Ronaldo continuing until he reaches 1,000 goals has since been mooted, with his national coach saying he would not rule out the possibility, although he admitted he would settle for 100 more assists rather than goals.
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“I think scoring 900 goals is not easy. It is a historic feat, incredible, it is an inspiration for several generations and for football,” he said. “But for me, what is important now is why Cristiano scored that goal. I think it is the performance. Very good, full of intelligence. Our striker is not just about scoring goals. It is important. It is a number for the future, but for us, the important thing is now.
“Cristiano’s performance against Croatia was very important to open up spaces, to be able to win the game and work hard for the victory. I don’t think anyone can say that Cristiano can’t do something. It’s incredible what he does in football. But for us the goal is collective. Cristiano can help, it’s not just about goals. Assists are very important, if he can make 100 assists I will be very happy.”
Martinez suggested in his press conference that he could rest some players for his side’s next game against Scotland, meaning Ronaldo could be content with a place on the bench.
