Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez affirmed that superstar Al-Nassr is the best player he has ever worked with.

Portuguese coach Roberto Martinez said Cristiano Ronaldo’s desire to play is giving him the opportunity to play at the international level at the age of 39.

Ronaldo turned 39 in early February but is still showing his burning desire. The Portugal international, currently at Al-Nassr, finished 2023 as the world’s top male goalscorer and he is leading the race for the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot with 22 goals so far this season.

Ronaldo also remains an important player for Portugal, and coach Martinez outlined why he remains so important to the national team.

Martinez has explained why Ronaldo is the best player he has ever worked with, with the Spaniard telling RTVE: “I have worked with many people, but what makes Cristiano different is is the need to always prepare to be the best player.”

Portugal’s captain also looked ahead to Euro 2024 and talked about the opportunity to lift the Euro trophy again. Martinez added: “We have won it once. However, it is a very demanding league, France produces players in numbers that no other country can. He has a coach has created a club culture within the team. Belgium has a very competitive generation. And you can never ignore Italy. And Germany, are going through a difficult period, but in their league, They can be champions.”

Ronaldo already has a huge trophy cabinet but will aim to add more titles before hanging up his boots. The superstar has hinted that he can play into his 40s and has a contract with Al-Nassr until 2025. Ronaldo’s team is currently second in the Saudi Pro League, seven points behind leaders Al-Hilal .

Martinez and Ronaldo will reunite with Portugal to attend Euro 2024 in the summer. Ronaldo lifted the trophy with the national team in 2016 and will be hoping for a second title. Portugal will face Türkiye, Czech Republic and one of Georgia, Greece, Luxembourg or Kazakhstan in the group stage.