Cristiano Ronaldo 'not intimidated' by youngsters Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland

Age is just a number for Cristiano Ronaldo, the Al Nassr star who, despite approaching his 40s, showcases remarkable competitiveness against fresh generational talents like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. 

So how does he manage to stay in a state of competition with the "young lions"?

The former Manchester United star recently sat down with the WHOOP podcast for a one-on-one interview where he revealed how he maintains his hunger for competition when he plays against fresh football talent.

Based on his response, it isn't as easy as it seems even for a player like Ronaldo:

"Life is a box of surprises, and it is difficult, not easy to be at this level, still push, motivate yourself and continue, score goals, and be in a state of competition with the young lions," he said.

Emphasising the competition, he added: "They are coming and when they play against me they want to show me that they are stronger."

Ronaldo insists that playing at his age also requires mental readiness other than just physical maintenance to push past the prime.

The former Real Madrid star admits that the journey has been difficult, but he sees it as a challenge.

"This is a great challenge for me, and it is a great thing, and I feel proud of that. Being at this age and still competing," concluded the 39-year-old footballer who is still scoring hat tricks or golazos on the field.