Roy Keane Jests: 'Ronaldo Scores Many Goals, But Does He Press?'

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has playfully reignited the long-standing debate about Cristiano Ronaldo's defensive work rate, joking that the striker's incredible goal-scoring record is less important than his pressing statistics.

Keane delivered the quip with a subtle smile during an appearance on British television. "Ronaldo has scored 948 goals? But does he press the opposition? Show me the pressing statistics, because that's the only important metric now," the Irishman remarked.

The comment quickly circulated on social media, largely interpreted as light-hearted teasing. This playful jab comes from a place of familiarity, as Keane has historically been one of Ronaldo's fiercest defenders against critics.

In 2022, when Ronaldo was widely criticized for his lack of pressing, Keane strongly backed his former teammate, arguing that the Portuguese star should not be treated as a reserve player. At the time, Keane asserted that "people forget football still needs goals more than off-the-ball runs."

Ronaldo Continues to Break Records at 40

While Keane keeps the jokes coming, Ronaldo continues to defy age and break records on the pitch. In Portugal's recent 2-2 draw against Hungary at the Alvalade Stadium on October 14, the 40-year-old scored a decisive brace. Both goals came from close-range finishes, which highlighted his exceptional positional sense and movement within the box.

With this performance, Ronaldo cemented his status as the highest goalscorer in World Cup qualifying history, reaching 41 goals and surpassing the previous record of 39 held by Carlos Ruiz (Guatemala). Lionel Messi currently sits third on that list with 36 goals.

Ronaldo’s incredible career tally now stands at 948 goals, including 143 for the Portuguese national team. He is fast approaching the unprecedented 1,000-goal milestone, a feat never before achieved in football history, which he could potentially reach in 2026.

Despite Portugal missing an early chance to secure their qualification for the 2026 World Cup due to a late equalizer by Dominik Szoboszlai, Ronaldo remains the center of attention thanks to his astonishing form. He has maintained a goal-per-game ratio, scoring 14 goals in his last 14 appearances.

Portugal currently leads Group F with 10 points, five ahead of Hungary, and remains highly favored to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup. Their upcoming fixtures include matches against Ireland and Armenia in November.