Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho is learning every day from Cristiano Ronaldo but has made it clear he is not looking to follow the same path as the Real Madrid superstar.

Ronaldo came through the Sporting academy but after just one season in the first team was snapped up by Manchester United.

Carvalho has enjoyed a breakthrough season of his own and is reportedly a target for a number of Europe’s elite clubs.

Asked if he is considering following the example of Ronaldo, Carvalho said: “I have one of the best players in the world in my national team and I am certainly going to learn from him.

“He is an example. But I don't want to follow the path of Cristiano Ronaldo, I want to walk my own path by always giving my best. Only the future knows what's there for me.”

The 22-year-old may have only played four games for Portugal but he has already been highlighted as a possible star of the World Cup.

Yet the young midfielder is aware of just how important it will be for Portugal that Ronaldo fires throughout the World Cup.

“He is extremely important for us, he is our captain, he is the best in the world,” said Carvalho. “He is going to help the team with his experience and we are counting on him to help us achieve our goal".