“My passion is still intact” – Cristiano Ronaldo sends special message to fans about his love for the game

Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Manchester United has reaffirmed his dedication to the game, saying his passion is still present even 20 years after making his professional debut.

After a rocky preseason, Ronaldo, 37, has recently found himself warming the bench for the Red Devils. The seasoned striker was unsuccessful in trying to arrange a transfer away from Old Trafford earlier this summer so that he could play in the UEFA Champions League for another team.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has started just three games under new head coach Erik ten Hag, only one of which was in the Premier League. In eight games, he has only scored once, converting a penalty kick in his team’s recent 2-0 victory over Sheriff Tiraspol in the UEFA Europa League.

Speaking in a promotional video for LiveScore on Twitter, Ronaldo asserted that he still has the enthusiasm to achieve more. He said:

"Even now, when a game is on, I get excited. The players, the noises, and the incredible stadium atmosphere are some of my earliest memories."

He added:

"I still love and have passion for the game because the people who know me, they know this is my life. This is what I love to do. My passion is still intact."

Earlier this week, the former Real Madrid man claimed that he is well-prepared to lead his national team to future glory and has no plans to hang up his boots in the near future. He said (via Observador):

“I still feel motivated. I feel that my ambition is still up there. I am in a national team with many young players still, with an extraordinary future and obviously, I want to be a part of this World Cup and the European Championship as well.”

Cristiano Ronaldo, who will play in his fifth FIFA World Cup later this year in Qatar, will attempt to win the treasured trophy in what is likely to be his final participation in the quadrennial competition.

Portugal, which is now rated ninth in the world, was placed in Group H with Uruguay, South Korea, and Ghana. The competition is scheduled to begin on November 21 and conclude on December 18.