Bellamy talks about the incredible meeting with Ronaldo
Why it matters
The meeting between Craig Bellamy and Cristiano Ronaldo at Lisbon airport highlights not only the fame of the Portuguese footballer, but also the impact he has on the world of football. With his numerous trophies, including two victories in the Nations League, Ronaldo represents a symbol of excellence for Portugal and for world football. This episode highlights how his presence can also influence industry professionals, like Bellamy.
Context
Cristiano Ronaldo, currently playing for Manchester United, has a career full of successes, including five Ballon d'Ors and two Nations League titles with Portugal. His experience and superstar status could influence not only his team's performances, but also Wales' approach to the match.
Key points
- Bellamy recounts the incredible meeting with Ronaldo.
- Craig Bellamy reflects on a memorable meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo at Lisbon airport, highlighting the Portuguese star's immense presence and the challenges Wales face in their next Nations League match.
- When Bellamy watched on as Ronaldo caused lockdown - Yahoo Sports.
"We got to the airport and the police were everywhere. Everything was blocked off," Bellamy said. "We were Burnley and we had a few VIPs. We were on a coach, we were chartered, but we still had to get into the airport a certain way. There were lines of police with police cars everywhere. We thought 'something's happened, there must be an alert'.
Everything was blocked. People in the terminal, anything. We couldn't get off the bus and had to wait for what we thought was a security breach or something.
We were stuck for 10-15 minutes and suddenly this car comes, stops and a guy gets out, goes into the trunk, takes a backpack and someone else gets out and puts the backpack on his shoulders. And who is he? Ronaldo."
Bellamy added: "He was walking alone with police everywhere and Lisbon airport on lockdown. Even the police were taking photos. Nobody could disturb him. It was the coolest walk I've ever seen. We were all on the bus with our mouths open. Everyone who complained was silenced. It was like we were standing in front of a president."
The last time Bellamy shared a pitch with Ronaldo was in October 2008, when the Portuguese scored two goals for Manchester United in a 2-0 win against West Ham United at Old Trafford. Now, he prepares to manage his country against the 233-time international as Wales begin their Nations League A campaign in Portugal on Thursday evening.
As he tries to come up with a plan to neutralize Ronaldo and the rest of the star Portuguese team at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, Bellamy wants to fully reflect on the footballer's experience he saw at Lisbon airport.
“How can you block an entire airport?” Bellamy added. "I couldn't even carry my computer through customs at Cardiff Airport. What did I just see? The reason I tell this story is because this is the level of greatness this guy has. It was like 'wow'. I'm so happy I got to see that moment because he's beyond a superhero."
Over the summer, Ronaldo confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last. However, the Al-Nassr striker has not yet revealed when he will put an end to his brilliant career. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo's future, Bellamy says he completely understands why the footballer - now in his 24th year as a Portuguese international - continues to perform at an elite level.
"I'm not surprised he's still playing with the professionalism he showed," Bellamy added. “It's also how intelligent he is, he knows how to protect himself, he knows not to waste his energy at certain moments and he still has the habit of scoring, and you never lose that.
We are talking not only about one of the greatest players of our generation, but of all generations for what he was able to do. He's beyond a superhero."
Despite the focus on Ronaldo and his teammates, Bellamy knows he must maintain his own focus - as well as that of his players and staff - on how Wales can leave the City of Light with a positive result. The manager's already difficult job has been made even more complicated by the fact that he will be without players such as Harry Wilson, Joe Rodon, Karl Darlow, Nathan Broadhead, Dylan Lawlor, Rubin Colwill and Isaak Davies in Lisbon. However, Bellamy has urged his players to show the right kind of determination as they look to subvert the odds and stay in the top tier of the Nations League in the coming months.
“We need to be excited, but not too excited,” he added. "We worked hard to get to League A, so what can we do to stay in it? If we can do that, it would be a big help and that's the motivation.
We want to live these moments. I tell you, when you finish playing, you won't remember the games against Bury and all that stuff. You will remember these moments and they will live with you. But you also want to remember how you played. You don't want this to become too much.
I want my players to give their best. They have to love every second of it. This is the push for us.
What happens now
With Wales preparing to face Portugal in an upcoming Nations League match, Bellamy's meeting with Ronaldo could serve as motivation for the Welsh team. Players like Harry Wilson and Joe Rodon will face the challenge of competing against one of football's legends. The match could prove crucial for both teams in the context of the Nations League.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Lisbon airport?
Lisbon airport was practically put into lockdown due to the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo, with a massive presence of police and security officials.
Who confirmed the meeting with Ronaldo?
The meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo was confirmed by Craig Bellamy, the Wales manager.
Why did this meeting happen now?
The meeting took place during Craig Bellamy's pre-season trip to Lisbon, while he was assistant manager at Burnley.
What changes did this meeting bring to Bellamy?
Bellamy described Ronaldo as 'beyond a superhero', understanding his vast influence and presence in the world of football.
What does the meeting mean for Bellamy?
The meeting helped Bellamy realize that Ronaldo is much more than a football icon, highlighting his greatness and the respect he commands.
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