Jump To Cristiano Ronaldo's Stats
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At any other time in the history of soccer, Ronaldo would have been considered the best. But, he had the unlucky timing of coming onto the world scene as his nemesis from the Football Clube in Barcelona, Lionel Messi, peaked also. It rankles Cristiano to be considered number two, but the governing soccer body, FIFA, has named Messi – for the third year in a row – the best soccer player in the world.
Ronalo's credentials remain stellar. Both his individual and team accomplishments seem as though he deserves that top spot on the podium year in year out. In fact, in 2008 Ronaldo did beat out everyone to win both the FIFA World Player of the Year award and the coveted Balloon d'Or.
In the professional ranks, Ronaldo began his career with Manchester United in England. Wearing the storied No. 7 jersey from 2003 to 2009, he scored a total of 84 goals in league play. During that same time, he scored another 17 times in championship Cup play. From 2010 through 2012, he has become a member of the Real Madrid squad in a record breaking financial contract that keeps him motivated. His pace has picked up in the goal-scoring category as he has racked up 133 in league, cup and European contests.
On the national level Ronaldo plays as a forward for Portugal. From 2003 through 2012, Cristiano has scored 33 times in international games.
Ronaldo has distinguished himself when it comes to money and contracts in the sport of soccer. He holds the title as the most expensive player to transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid that cost nearly $150 million in 2010. His yearly contract now with Real Madrid pays him upwards of $24 million per year. He has a buyout clause that amounts to $1.3 billion dollars.
