Former Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo opens up on CR7’s elite mentality and how the Portuguese star controlled his teammates’ plates during team dinners.
“He looks at what you’re eating.” Those are the words of Brazilian midfielder Arthur Melo, who recently shared fascinating behind-the-scenes insights into Cristiano Ronaldo’s legendary discipline during their time together at Juventus.
Now back in Brazil with Grêmio, Arthur reflected on the “CR7 Effect,” noting that Ronaldo’s leadership went far beyond his goals on the pitch. According to the Brazilian, Ronaldo’s commitment to longevity is unparalleled in world football.
The Famous Juventus Dinner Table
One of the most revealing anecdotes shared by Arthur involves the team’s social life. Even during relaxed team dinners, Ronaldo never switched off his “professional mode.”
“He would look at our plates and tell us what we should be eating,” Arthur revealed. Ronaldo didn’t just lead by example; he actively advised teammates on nutrition, pointing out which foods could harm their physical performance. This wasn’t seen as arrogance, but as a natural part of his winner’s mentality.
A Routine Without Exceptions
Arthur highlighted that Ronaldo’s routine built on three pillars: Rest, Nutrition, and Recovery was non-negotiable.
- Discipline: Arthur never saw the Portuguese star deviate from his schedule.
- Leadership: Ronaldo demanded the same level of intensity from veteran stars and academy graduates alike.
- Legacy: For Arthur, the experience changed his own perspective on how to treat his career as a professional athlete.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
