by Matthew Wilkins

Created on: May 28, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

Cristiano Ronaldo; football phenomena. Combining skill, ability, speed, passion and a new found maturity, the Portuguese international provides all of the essential characteristics to become the world's best footballer. Scoring 42 goals in the English Premiership 2007/2008 season, Ronaldo is without doubt the most prolific and consistent player in global football.

Upon arriving at Old Trafford from Lisbon, in 2003, Ronaldo was faced with pressure from both the fans and manager of Manchester United, to not only fulfill his potential, but also to replace the formidable David Beckham on United's right wing. Ronaldo made his first appearance for United as a substitute against Bolton, leaving the spectators of both sides in awe, as he dazzled the opposition with his skills and pace. Since his debut, Ronaldo has continued to improve and has consistently performed, collecting awards and recognition throughout the past four English Premiership seasons.

Despite his success, the current PFA Player Of The Year has had his fair share of criticism since becoming the World's most rated player. In the 2006 World Cup, when England played Portugal, Ronaldo famously winked at the camera after contributing to the dismissal of Manchester United team-mate and England forward, Wayne Rooney, which proved a costly mistake for the youngster, who was consistently jeered during the early games of the 2006/2007 English Premier League season as a result. Fortunately, Ronaldo is managed by one of the most widely respected managers in the history of football, Sir Alex Ferguson. During the time between the 06/07 season and the most recent Premiership campaign, Sir Alex Ferguson converted Ronaldo from an immature, arrogant individual, to a mature and likable professional.

Having recently completed his most successful season, scoring 42 goals in all competitions, Ronaldo has become the most sought football player in the world. It is not debatable whether Ronaldo could become the best soccer player, as he already is. Undoubtedly, the Manchester United Number 7 can only improve further. At such a young age, the Portuguese winger has already shown that he is potentially a more skillful player than the likes of Ronaldinho and a more technical player than the former French attacking midfielder, Zinedine Zidane.

With an estimated price tag of 100 million, the current and future generation of soccer fans can expect to be treated to some of football's most historical moments, courtesy of the current most expensive player in the world. Despite recent speculation surrounding Ronaldo's future at Manchester United, with persisted interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid, Ronaldo is due to feature for Portugal in the imminent 2008 European Championships.

In what has been a relatively short career as a footballer, Ronaldo has shown the world exactly what he is capable of. He has consistently performed in all competitions and has never failed to impress with his collection of mystifying skills and astounding goals. It is eagerly anticipated as to whether Ronaldo can maintain his current status as the world's best soccer player, or whether he will suffer as a result of the constant media attention. Based on his career so far, one would expect the wonder-kid to improve on his current abilities, which will most certainly lead towards more awards and deserved credit.

'I would be very proud if, one day, I'm held in the same esteem as George Best or Beckham. It's what I'm working hard towards.' - Cristiano Ronaldo

Learn more about this author, Matthew Wilkins.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.