Comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Suarez in their current career phases provides an interesting perspective on their roles and impacts at the Euros and Copa America respectively. At 39 and 37, respectively, they are in the twilight of their careers, now playing outside Europe—Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League and Suarez in Major League Soccer. […]
Comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Suarez in their current career phases provides an interesting perspective on their roles and impacts at the Euros and Copa America respectively.
At 39 and 37, respectively, they are in the twilight of their careers, now playing outside Europe—Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League and Suarez in Major League Soccer.
Despite their ongoing success in these leagues, their age has become apparent at the international level, where their impact has waned.
Luis Suarez’s approach at Copa America
Suarez’s approach at the ongoing Copa America provides a valuable insights for Ronaldo. Recognising his limitations, Suarez has embraced a lesser role, supporting the next generation from the bench.
The former Barcelona striker has accepted being a substitute to Darwin Nunez, content with limited or no playing time while passionately cheering on his teammates and playing a role of a mentor with his valuable experience for the side.
This selfless attitude has played a part in Uruguay reaching the semi-finals, following a dramatic shootout victory over Brazil.
Cristiano Ronaldo failed to score a single goal from open play in Euro 2024
Cristiano Ronaldo’s self-centred Euro 2024 campaign
In stark contrast, Ronaldo’s experience at Euro 2024 was quite different. Despite starting all five of Portugal’s matches, he failed to score, dropping average performances, leading to Portugal getting knocked out by France in the quarter-finals.
Ronaldo’s insistence on being the central figure, despite his declining performance, arguably hindered his team’s success.
Had Ronaldo taken a page from Suarez’s book, recognising the strengths of his younger teammates and offering support from the sidelines, Portugal’s outcome might have been different.
