In January 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo set down his suitcases in Saudi Arabia, joining the Al-Nassr club. With an estimated salary of 200 million euros for two and a half years, and an additional 200 million for his role as ambassador of the Kingdom according to The Teamthe Portuguese star began a new chapter in his prestigious career.
At the same time, he closed the door on a twenty-year adventure in Europe, a journey strewn with trophies and records, which should earn him, this Thursday,
a new distinction at the launch of the new Champions League format.
“I expected that…”
In a video posted on his channel YouTube, UR Cristiano, launched on July 8, Ronaldo returned to the reasons which pushed him to join the Gulf.
“Everywhere I play, I show my level,” said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. I knew that there (in Saudi Arabia, editor’s note) I would also show my level. I will improve the league and I knew that the players would follow me.
I knew that the players would follow me because, not only in financial terms, which is the main point, but also because of the culture of football.”he continued.
Ronaldo, on the eve of his fortieth birthday, also stressed:
“I knew that the Saudi football culture was nice because I had friends who had played there before and there were Portuguese coaches there. Of course, if you ask me if I expected big stars to settle in this country so quickly, I will say no. – No. But I expected football to change thanks to me. I believe in myself, not only in football, but also in other areas.
