'He would even analyse bottles of water' - Cristiano Ronaldo grilled club doctors at Juventus as Inter chief explains why Portugal star is 'different' to other players

CR7’s time at Juve was brief but left a lasting impression on those around him. Inter president Marotta, who worked with Ronaldo at Juve before moving to the San Siro club, recalled the striker’s unparalleled attention to detail. The forward would consult club doctors on the properties of the water he consumed, reflecting a meticulous approach to every aspect of his training and recovery. This obsession with optimising his body and performance, even in small details, highlights why Ronaldo remains one of football’s most enduring talents.

"At Juve, I was lucky enough to have Cristiano Ronaldo. He was different from the others because he would even analyse bottles of water. He would go to the doctor and ask what was in them, their characteristics.” Marotta said to La Gazzetta dello Sport. 

"If he’s still a champion today, it’s also because of things like this. The algorithm helps you a lot, but it’s not the determining factor in player selection,” Marotta explained. This insight demonstrates Ronaldo’s unique blend of intellect, discipline, and self-awareness, which complements his natural talent. His understanding of how every detail affects performance, down to hydration, is a key factor in maintaining elite levels over decades, setting him apart from peers and reinforcing his longevity in top-flight football.

At 40, the Portuguese superstar continues to perform at a high level with Al-Nassr and the national team. Since joining the Saudi Arabian club in December 2022, he has registered 124 goal contributions in 117 matches, including 104 goals and 20 assists. Marotta’s observations offer a glimpse into the mental and physical habits that allow Ronaldo to sustain this output. His career trajectory, from Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus to his current stint in Saudi Arabia, demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to personal excellence, resilience, and adaptation to different footballing environments.

Ronaldo turns 41 next year but still has just under two left to run on his contract with Al-Nassr after signing a new contract in June. That suggests the five-time Ballon d'Or winner does not see his career coming to an end any time soon with him already netting four goals in as many Saudi Pro League matches this season to show he still has plenty to offer on the field as well as off of it.