‘Cristiano Was Never Arrogant’: Chicharito Defends Ronaldo, Reveals the Human Side Behind the Football Icon

Former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez has come out strongly in support of Cristiano Ronaldo, rejecting the perception that the Portuguese superstar is arrogant. Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, Hernandez shared his experience of playing alongside Ronaldo during the 2014-15 season at Real Madrid and described him as one of the most humble and hardworking footballers he has ever known.

Chicharito says Ronaldo’s competitiveness was misunderstood

Hernandez recalled hearing numerous stories about Ronaldo’s dedication during his time at Manchester United before eventually becoming his teammate at Real Madrid. According to the Mexican striker, every story proved to be true.

“He was competitive even when he was having dinner. But that competitiveness was not about arrogance. It was about him wanting to be right, not wanting to prove to you that he was better than you,” Hernandez said.

He explained that Ronaldo possesses an extraordinary competitive mindset that remains active at all times, allowing him to sustain elite standards throughout his legendary career.

Former teammate reveals Ronaldo’s humble personality

Chicharito revealed that arriving early for training and spending extra hours in the gym allowed him to interact closely with Ronaldo away from the spotlight. Those moments, he said, showed a completely different side of the Portuguese captain.

“He was very human and very humble. I never considered Cristiano arrogant. I think that is what people do not realise,” Hernandez said.

The former Mexico international added that Ronaldo’s confidence often gets mistaken for arrogance simply because he openly acknowledges his achievements.

Why Ronaldo faces more criticism now

Hernandez believes critics have become more vocal only because Ronaldo is now in the latter stages of his career.

“A lot of people are starting to speak badly about him now because they could not do it in the past. He’s 41 years old and still playing at that level. The numbers are there,” he said.

He also urged fans to stop comparing Ronaldo and Lionel Messi by diminishing either player’s achievements.

“You do not need to put Messi down to lift Ronaldo up, and you do not need to put Ronaldo down to lift Messi up. We have both of them,” Hernandez concluded, praising both legends for combining extraordinary talent with unmatched discipline.