Former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez has shared insights into the true nature of Cristiano Ronaldo, challenging the common perception that the Portuguese captain is arrogant. Hernandez, who joined Manchester United in 2010—a year after Ronaldo’s departure for Spain—later played with the legendary forward during a season-long loan at Real Madrid in 2014.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Hernandez emphasized that Ronaldo’s intense demeanor is not a sign of arrogance but rather a reflection of his constant internal battle to prove doubters wrong. According to Hernandez, the 41-year-old operates without an 'off' switch, driven by a desire to go against the tide every single day. Hernandez noted that when asked if he feels he is the best, Ronaldo confidently confirms it because he maintains the discipline required to sustain that level of pressure every second of his life.
Ronaldo’s tenure at Real Madrid, which began with a then-record transfer fee in 2009, saw him become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 451 goals in 438 appearances, alongside four Champions League titles. As he prepares for the upcoming season with Al-Nassr, the veteran forward is currently pursuing the 1,000-goal career milestone. Despite Portugal’s exit in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ronaldo remains ahead of his rival Lionel Messi in the race to reach the 1,000-goal mark. Ronaldo currently sits at 976 goals, while Messi has recorded 919, positioning the Portuguese star to potentially secure the milestone if he maintains his prolific scoring form.
Even though some people consider the mercurial forward as arrogant, Hernandez refuses to brand the five-time Ballon d'Or in the same way.While talking about the superstar's mentality, Hernandez pointed to how the 41-year-old has no 'off' switch when it comes to proving his doubters wrong.
Both players are in the hunt to reach the 1000-goal mark in their careers.
