Cristiano Ronaldo: The Numbers Don’t Lie

Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent scientific body age assessment—28.9 years old—might make headlines, but his performance in the Saudi Pro League paints a starkly different picture. As someone who’s spent eight years dissecting football data, I can confirm: the stats reveal a player in decline.

The Goal Drought: More Than Just a Slump

Last season, Ronaldo netted 35 goals (with 8 penalties) for Al Nassr. This season? Just 25, with the same number of spot-kicks. That’s a 10-goal drop-off—a statistical red flag even his most ardent fans can’t ignore. Worse yet, his open-play efficiency has plummeted. The man who once terrorized defenders now struggles to dominate even in Saudi Arabia.

One-on-One Woes: The Athleticism Gap

Advanced metrics show Ronaldo’s duel success rate has dipped sharply. Whether it’s aerial battles or dribbles past defenders, he’s no longer the relentless force of nature we remember. His teammates are funneling him chances (bless their hearts), but converting them? That’s become hit-or-miss.

The Elephant in the Room: Tactical Liability

Here’s where it gets uncomfortable: Ronaldo’s lack of pressing and defensive workrate forces his team into compensatory shapes. Modern football punishes such imbalances—even in less competitive leagues. While his penalty-box instincts remain sharp, football isn’t played solely inside 18 yards anymore.

Verdict: A Legend Facing Reality

Ronaldo’s physique might defy time, but football is unforgiving. Unless he adapts his game (think late-career Zlatan), these numbers won’t improve. For now, enjoy the highlights—just don’t expect them weekly.