Cristiano Ronaldo is the most competitive player I know: ATK marquee player Helder Postiga

Helder Postiga says Cristiano Ronaldo is a very hard worker

The Atletico de Kolkata side have officially arrived in the city of joy after a month-long pre-season campaign which has helped Head Coach Antonio Habas shortlist the main candidates for his starting eleven. All eyes will be on Atletico’s marquee player Helder Postiga, who will have to fill the shoes of free-scoring Fikru Tefera as the new striker.

Postiga said, “When I was approached by ATK, I actually didn’t have much of an idea about what the ISL was. I had only seen a few videos and pictures but didn’t have an idea about the football.

“However, after my pre-season and training, I have realised that the talent scale is quite high. The Indian players are very dedicated and want to do well.

“I am really excited to be a part of the ISL and champion team like Atletico de Kolkata. I have heard a lot about their passionate fans and will look to contribute in a positive manner this season.”

The 33-year old is the youngest marquee player in the ISL’s second edition. Postiga, along with North East United’s Simao, will add a Portuguese flavour to the tournament. On being asked what his goal with Atletico is, he said, “My goal is simple; it’s to retain the title and score goals. Also, I would like to help develop the Indian players as well.”

Ronaldo is more competitive than Figo: Postiga

Currently Cristiano Ronaldo’s strike partner for Portugal, Postiga commended the former’s hard work, “Ronaldo is a really hard worker, he has bundles of talent, but he also puts in the time and effort to be the best.

“He is the best, like Figo, but the only thing that separates him is that he is far more competitive.” He played alongside Figo at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

The former Porto and Sporting CP striker also spoke about Jose Mourinho’s impact on his career. He said, “Mourinho is someone who has been a huge influence in my career. He guided me during my formative years and taught me a lot of things. So I am grateful to him.”

Speaking about the pre-season, he said: “The pre-season was very exciting in Spain, but now it’s performance time and I am sure the entire team is eager to prove themselves on the field.”

The other foreign players apart from Postiga in the ATK squad are Iain Hume, Jose Rey, Javi Lara, Ofentse Nato, Gavilan, Valmiro Rocha, Jose Arroyo, Juan Calatayud and Semeehg Doutie.