Real Madrid fitness coach: Cristiano Ronaldo can play until he's 38

Posted Tuesday, May 31, 2011 by Supersport.com

Real Madrid fitness coach Valter Di Salvo claims the club's top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo can emulate former Manchester United team-mate Ryan Giggs and play into his late 30's.

Ronaldo has enjoyed a superb season on a personal level, breaking the La Liga goalscoring record in the process, netting 40 times to overtaking Hugo Sanchez' 38.

However, the 26 year old had to settle for a Copa del Rey winner's medal in 2011, with Madrid coming up short in their pursuit of La Liga and Champions League glory.

Di Salvo, who joined the Spanish giants from Manchester United in the summer of 2003 is also adamant Ronaldo's big money move to the Bernabeu in 2009 will turn out to be a bargain.

"It is difficult to say where the ceiling is for Ronaldo because he never gives up. I think he will play upto 38 years at the top. Like [Ryan] Giggs, he is a professional and an example for all his companions," the fitness coach told Marca.

"I think that Madrid made a cheap signing because he will play at the highest standard for many years and he will give a lot for Madrid."

The Italian coach believes Ronaldo's professionalism when it comes to looking after his body is the reason why he will enjoy a prolonged career.

"I know Ronaldo well. He is a maverick, he loves to work hard. He doesn't just watch his diet, he takes care of everything. He measures everything he eats, what he drinks and has hours of rest," he added.

Ronaldo has scored a total of 86 goals for Madrid in 89 games since his arrival from the Premier League two years ago.