Cristiano Ronaldo’s Mentality Inspires Celtic Star Paulo Bernardo Amid Champions League Demands
October 21, 2024
Celtic midfielder Paulo Bernardo has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo’s unwavering dedication and strong mentality serve as a significant inspiration for him as he navigates the demands of playing at an elite level.
Ronaldo’s Enduring Success
Bernardo, who represents Portugal at the Under-21 level, admires Ronaldo’s ability to maintain an exceptional level of performance well into his 30s. Ronaldo’s relentless drive and focus have allowed him to remain among the world’s top players.
Bernardo’s Aspirations
The Celtic star strives to emulate Ronaldo’s work ethic and mental toughness. “His mentality is really strong, and he focuses on football like no one else,” Bernardo said. “He’s an example for me, and I can learn a lot from him.”
Managing a Packed Schedule
Celtic faces a congested fixture list, with crucial Champions League matches against Atalanta and RB Leipzig, a Premier Sports Cup semifinal, and league games against Motherwell, Dundee, and Kilmarnock. Bernardo acknowledges the challenges but is eager to play as many games as possible.
Mental and Physical Resilience
Bernardo recognizes that the mental aspect of the game plays a significant role in coping with fatigue. “If you think you’re tired, you’ll feel more tired,” he explained. “But if you think you’re fresh, it’s better.”
Brendan Rodgers’ Squad Management
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has assembled a strong squad, providing options for rotation and maintaining player freshness. Bernardo understands the competition for places and is prepared to seize opportunities when they arise.
Midfield Options
The Celtic midfield boasts talent and versatility, with Bernardo, Callum McGregor, Arne Engels, Reo Hatate, and Luke McCowan offering diverse styles.
Bernardo’s Flexibility
Rodgers has utilized Bernardo in various roles, demonstrating the player’s adaptability. From starting against Dortmund to coming off the bench against Slovan Bratislava, Bernardo remains focused on contributing to the team.
Champions League Experience
Bernardo cherishes the experience of playing in the Champions League, citing it as a valuable learning opportunity.
Conclusion
As Celtic navigates the demands of European competition and domestic fixtures, Paulo Bernardo draws inspiration from Cristiano Ronaldo’s unwavering dedication. With a strong mentality and physical resilience, Bernardo is poised to make a significant impact for Celtic.
Sources
- Daily Record
- Celtic FC
- Champions League
- Cristiano Ronaldo
- Paulo Bernardo
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