Cristiano Ronaldo’s Free-Kicks Under Scrutiny from Former Man Utd Player

Background on Ronaldo`s Set Pieces

Cristiano Ronaldo, the acclaimed five-time recipient of the Ballon d`Or, has found the net from free-kicks numerous times throughout his career. However, many of his attempts have missed the target significantly. Despite this mixed success rate, the football icon consistently employs the same distinctive `knuckleball` technique when taking dead balls.

Analysis of His Free-Kick Record

Over his lengthy and record-breaking career, Ronaldo`s effectiveness from set pieces has been a frequent subject of discussion. The prevailing opinion often suggests that, considering his exceptional abilities as a player, a greater number of his free-kicks should either result in a goal or at least force a save from the opposing goalkeeper.

Critique from an Old Trafford Graduate

Mitchell, a product of the Manchester United academy who did not play alongside Ronaldo at the club, is among those who have publicly questioned the superstar`s approach. He specifically wonders why CR7 opts for the same powerful `knuckleball` method even for free-kicks taken relatively close to the goal, which might benefit from a more finessed strike.

Mitchell`s Social Media Comments

Mitchell, who made a single substitute appearance for Manchester United in the Premier League against Crystal Palace in May 2017, recently expressed his view on social media. Despite Ronaldo not currently being in competitive action, Mitchell posted: “Don’t get why Ronaldo knuckle balls every free kick even when it’s 20 yards away.” When confronted by fans about his own playing career and free-kick tally, the current Exeter winger defended his right to comment. He stated, “When I speak about footballers I don’t understand why fans try to say what have you done etc all Prem players are obviously better than me but can I not speak from a fans perspective or am I not allowed? Why can I not criticise Ronaldo because I’m not as good as him if you can criticise me?”

Ronaldo`s Future Set Pieces

Ronaldo is expected to continue taking free-kicks for Al-Nassr in the upcoming season, following the signing of a new two-year contract with the Saudi Pro League side. He also remains a key figure in the Portugal national team setup, likely featuring as they build towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup.