RIYADH: In his first full interview since joining Al-Nassr Football Club, Cristiano Ronaldo has shared his thoughts on playing and living in Saudi Arabia. The Portuguese superstar expressed his positive outlook despite his club finishing in second place after a closely contested battle for the title with Al-Ittihad.
Ronaldo expressed his initial expectation to win something in his first season but acknowledged the need for passion, consistency, and persistence to achieve success. Despite missing out on the title, he remains confident in the team’s improvement and believes they will fare better in the upcoming season.
Having joined Al-Nassr in January, Ronaldo has made a significant impact on the Saudi Pro League (SPL), scoring 14 goals in 16 matches. While acknowledging the competitiveness of the league and the presence of talented Arab players, he also highlighted areas for improvement such as infrastructure and refereeing.
Ronaldo Desires to Continue Playing in Saudi Arabia
Ronaldo expressed his contentment with living in Saudi Arabia and his desire to continue playing in the country. He praised the passion of Saudi football fans and their love for the game. Regarding the biggest change he encountered, Ronaldo mentioned the different training schedules, including late-night sessions during Ramadan. Despite the challenges, he appreciates the unique experiences and is pleased with the positive response from Saudi fans.
Saad Allazeez, Saudi Pro League’s vice chairman, commended Ronaldo’s impact on the league, noting increased attendance and global viewership. He emphasized the growth of football in Saudi Arabia, including the establishment of a professional women’s premier league and the popularity of the sport among both men and women.
When asked about the potential arrival of other players to the league, Ronaldo expressed his enthusiasm, stating that big names joining the league would contribute to its improvement.
Regarding living in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo praised the cultural experiences, vibrant nightlife, and high-quality restaurants in Riyadh. He expressed his interest in exploring more of the country, particularly mentioning AlUla as a beautiful destination.
Ronaldo expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from the Saudi people and pledged to be a part of their culture and make them enjoy his performance and victories on the field.
