‘Cristiano is an absolute genius’ – Ronaldo’s old trainer reveals how Man Utd star stays in shape ahead of 37th birthday

CRISTIANO RONALDO’S ex-trainer heralded the legend’s upcoming 37th birthday by tipping the ‘genius’ to play until his mid-40s.

Manchester United‘s power development coach Mick Clegg believes only Ryan Giggs came close to matching Ron’s fitness regime.

Man Utd icon Cristiano Ronaldo reckons he has the body and fitness of a super athlete a decade younger than his 36 years

GettyMick Clegg, left, takes Man Utd players through their paces, having seen Cristiano Ronaldo build the framework for his magnificent condition many years ago[/caption]

And Clegg claims five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo has now found the perfect routine for physical and emotional well-being.

He told the Mirror: “Cristiano is a genius, an absolute genius.

“He learned a lot in the early days about how to manage his body.

“Not just physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually, too. 

“He knows how to balance his food and he’s consistent in everything he does.

“The only person I’ve found as consistent was Ryan Giggs, which was why he played on until he was 40.

“Cristiano will want to go beyond the 40 mark. He’ll be hoping he can play until his mid-40s.”

Former Real Madrid and Juventus attacker Ronaldo, who will be 37 on Saturday, has publicly stated he aims to keep going until he is at least 41 – whereas Giggs quit playing aged 40.

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Then three days later United return to Premier League action following the international break with a trip to Burnley.

And Ronaldo is expected to start after maintaining his meticulous fitness routine in the past week when with his family to Dubai.

After rejoining United last August he had his £50,000 cryotherapy ice chamber transported from Italy to his rented mansion.

And according to Clegg that sort of dedication could be cold comfort to defenders for many more years.

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