Cristiano Ronaldo turns 39: A look at 5 major records of Real Madrid and Manchester United icon

“I don’t follow records; records follow me,” Cristiano Ronaldo was bold enough to talk about his greatness during his bitter-sweet second stint at Manchester United.

Known for rewriting history and topping goal-scoring charts in the world of competitive football, Portugal icon Ronaldo is celebrating his 39th birthday on Monday. One of the greatest players in the history of the beautiful game, Ronaldo championed multiple top-tier leagues through his glorious spells at Manchester United (English Premier League), Real Madrid (LaLiga) and Juventus (Serie A).

The former Sporting star left for Old Trafford in 2003. Nicknamed CR7, Ronaldo was on target when he made his UEFA Euro debut against Greece in 2004. Ronaldo has five more goals than Michel Platini, who is placed second on the list of leading goal-getters in the European Championship.

No player has scored more goals than Ronaldo (14) at the UEFA Euro. Ronaldo has also scored the most UEFA Euro and FIFA World Cup final goals combined in men’s football. With Al-Nassr superstar Ronaldo celebrating his 39th birthday today, let’s take a quick look at the five major records of the Real Madrid and Manchester United icon.