As the two sides prepare to meet in the knockout stages, debate has centred on whether the 41-year-old still enhances Portugal’s attacking play. Speaking to Mundo Deportivo at the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, the Spain international dismissed suggestions that Ronaldo’s influence has declined, arguing that such views come from those observing from the outside.
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"I always hear that, but from people who are not on his team, from fans,” said Gavi.
“Those who are on his team will have magnificent respect for him. Obviously, Cristiano is one of the best players in history and he can make the difference at any moment."