Brooks on fatherhood, Ronaldo and European nights
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Brooks on fatherhood, Ronaldo and European nights

August 20, 2026 · TaegeukGoal

David Brooks spoke about his expectations for the new season, his clash with Ronaldo, and precious moments about his life as a father ahead of his European debut.

Brooks on fatherhood, Ronaldo and European nights

SportsAccording to.

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Brooks could make his 50th cap by the end of the year since making his debut for Wales in 2017. His return is linked to Bornham's performance in the Premier League and will be an important factor in helping the team become competitive in European leagues.

Why it's important

David Brooks is set to face Cristiano Ronaldo for Wales in what will be a major milestone in his football career. Additionally, Brooks is preparing to make his European league debut at Bornham, which will be an opportunity for him to contribute to raising the team's status as a Premier League club.

Key takeaways

  • Brooks, about life as a father, Ronaldo, and European nights.
  • David Brooks spoke about his expectations for the new season, his clash with Ronaldo, and precious moments about his life as a father ahead of his European debut.
  • Brooks on fatherhood, Ronaldo and European nights - Yahoo Sports.
As the new football season approaches, David Brooks is facing a time of both small and big steps. The 29-year-old midfielder will face his father's hero Cristiano Ronaldo for Wales before making his European debut for Bornham. But most of all, Brooks and his wife, Flora, are preparing for their daughter Lottie's first steps. “Lottie is crawling and standing now, and I’m getting a lot of steps done when I get home,” Brooks said. “For the first few months after my daughter was born I was scared to do anything, but now I’m really enjoying it. It’s a lot of fun to go home and see her personality come out.” Brooks' story is well known. He was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin's lymphoma five years ago, and suffered from losing more than 10 kg while undergoing chemotherapy. He, who had difficulty getting out of bed due to treatment, declared that his cancer was cured in May 2022, and returned to the field after a long wait in March 2023. “That experience felt like another life,” Brooks recalled. “I feel like I've gotten back to where I was in the last few years. I feel good now, and sometimes I forget it happened.” Brooks made his debut for Wales in 2017 and could make his 50th cap by the end of the year. Wales begin their campaign in National League A with home and away matches against Portugal, Denmark and Norway. He will face his childhood idol Ronaldo in his first match against Portugal in Lisbon on September 24. “I had some of that player’s jerseys,” Brooks said. “It’s crazy to be on the same stage as one of the best players of our time. For me personally, to be able to get back to that point is a huge achievement. “Playing against the best teams in Europe is a huge bonus for Wales and we want to showcase our talent and prove to the world that we are not just a team to play for, but a team that can compete.”

Wales have yet to overcome the disappointment of being eliminated from the summer World Cup qualifiers, and coach Craig Bellamy almost moved to Burnley. Some former players say Bellamy "burned bridges," but Brooks said they are "getting back to work." The 2028 Euros is the next goal. “We’ve done well down there the last few years,” Brooks added. Image Last season left a bitter feeling for Bornham. The team finished sixth in the Premier League and qualified for the European league for the first time in its history, but the manager who led that success left and Marco Rose took over as new manager. “We were a little disappointed when Andoni said he was leaving, because we played really well last season,” Brooks said. “But change happens. I wish him the best at his new club.”

“As soon as Roger came, he was really friendly. He wanted to get to know us all and was clear about what needed to be done. We are having a lot of fun training and we had a good pre-season so we are looking forward to the season starting. We are all looking forward to the opportunity to show ourselves.” Bornham will get to know their opponents through the European league draw later this month, while Brooks is looking forward to the first European football of his career. “I’ve had some overseas experience with Wales, but this is my first time at club level. I’m really looking forward to seeing how special the European nights will be. We’re all waiting for the draw and wondering where we’ll end up.” Bornham begins the season with their first Premier League match against Manchester City on Sunday 23 August. Antoin Semenho was a starter last season and is still in touch with Bornham's WhatsApp Coffee group. "I haven't removed him from the group yet. In fact, half of the people in that group chat are no longer in Bornham. I think I'll have to create a new group," Brooks said. “I hope he doesn’t score against us, but he’s a fantastic player and we’re still in touch. I hope he has another good season after the first game.”

Bornham has never beaten Manchester City in Premier League history, but taking three points at the Etihad on Sunday will be yet another new experience for Brooks.

future outlook

Brooks will face Ronaldo against Portugal in Lisbon on September 24. The match will be the first step in Wales' run to Portugal, Denmark and Norway in League A, giving Brooks the opportunity to showcase his talents to the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What personal changes is David Brooks going through?

Brooks is preparing for his daughter Lottie's first steps into life as a father.

When will Brooks face Cristiano Ronaldo?

Brooks is scheduled to face Ronaldo in the match against Portugal in Lisbon on September 24.

How was Brooks' battle with cancer?

Brooks was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma five years ago, and was declared cancer-free in May 2022.

Why was Bornham’s manager changed?

At Bornham, coach Andoni Iraola, who led the team to success last season, has left and Marco Rose has been appointed as the new coach.

What is the current situation of the Wales national team?

Wales are suffering from the disappointment of being eliminated from the summer World Cup qualifiers, and their next target is the 2028 Euros.

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