Chicharito Defends Ronaldo, Calls ‘Arrogance’ Claim a Misconception
Former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Javier Hernandez, known as Chicharito, says the label of arrogance often applied to Cristiano Ronaldo is a misconception. Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Hernandez recalled playing with Ronaldo during his 2014 loan spell at Real Madrid and noted the Portuguese star’s relentless drive to silence critics. "I never consider Cristiano to be arrogant. That is a misconception. Cristiano has always been one to swim against the current. He has always felt the need to compete," Hernandez said. He added that Ronaldo constantly asks himself whether he achieved his goals and believes he is the best, with "no off switch" in his pursuit of excellence. Hernandez explained that to become the best of the best, one must be at peak every moment to withstand the pressures of being at the top. After his 2009 transfer to Real Madrid, Ronaldo became the club’s all‑time leading scorer with 451 goals in 438 matches and won four Champions League titles among many other accolades. For Nigerian football fans, the insight offers a reminder that sustained success stems from daily discipline rather than innate talent alone. Will you adopt Ronaldo’s relentless mindset in your own pursuits, or attribute top performance solely to natural ability?