Cristiano Ronaldo has mused that his priority is winning titles with his club, more so than trying to win the FIFA Ballon d’Or.
On the day that he has been confirmed as one of the three finalists for the annual award, for the sixth time in the last seven seasons, the 28-year-old has asserted where his focus is.
“This year’s edition? It is not most important in my career,” commented Ronaldo to BeInSport in an interview released today.
“It is a trophy that has been there for many years, it has important for the players, but it is only an individual trophy.
“It is better to have a fantastic career and do things for the clubs. It’s just a trophy, it’s not the end of the world.”
The Portugual international’s four goals in the World Cup play-offs against Sweden last month earned his nation a place at the competition in Brazil next summer.
“Every World Cup is special and this is more so because it is in Brazil and for the Portuguese that makes it special for our bonds, because we speak the same language.
“Russia was more consistent than us in the group, but we were able to qualify through the play-offs. We are not favourites and that will take away the pressure. We will try to do our best at the World Cup.
“My performance in the play-offs against Sweden? The day after the game is when you realise what you have done.
“It was a fantastic moment in the second leg in Sweden. For me, for the team and for the Portuguese. Ibrahimovic scored two important goals, but I scored three.
“Brazil, Spain and Germany are the favourites, but we will have less pressure and that can be a positive.”
Ronaldo mused on early work alongside Gareth Bale.
“Gareth is doing amazing. He had a difficult start, not least when he had an injury. Now he is doing great.
“He is on track and we are helping each other. He is a fantastic player and will help us to win titles.”
