On Tuesday, Cristiano Ronaldo was formally introduced by Al Nassr as the new star addition to the Saudi Arabian team.
Ronaldo received a proposal from Al Nassr, the 18-time Saudi champions, during the World Cup, but the agreement was finalized on 30 December.
Ronaldo arrived in Riyadh on a flight to King Khalid International Airport on Monday, when supporters welcomed him and his family before Tuesday’s medical examinations at Mrsool Park.
After winning seven domestic titles in England, Spain, and Italy, he will strive to capture a league title in a fourth nation.
Al Nassr plays Al Ta’ee on Thursday, but Ronaldo may make his debut so soon after completing his move.
A new challenge for @Cristiano ?? pic.twitter.com/YdgNvlo2s0
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) January 3, 2023
Ronaldo: My work in Europe is Done
The Portuguese international claimed that he had won every prize available in Europe and that the expensive contract he would receive is “typical” for a player of his caliber in his first interview since joining his new team.
Ronaldo said, “My work in Europe is finished. I played at some of the top clubs in the world, and I always came out on top.”
“I’m pleased and honored to join Al Nassr. The populace is still determining the level here. Because I am a unique player, this deal is also unique. That is typical for me.”
Rudi Garcia, the head coach of Al-Nassr, claimed that Ronaldo’s signing would be “amazing” for the growth of Saudi football.
Cristiano: āMy work in Europe is done. I played at the best clubs in the worldā¦ and I won everything. Iām happy, proud to join Al Nassrā. ? #Ronaldo
āPeople donāt know about the level here. This contract is unique because I am a unique player. It's normal for meā. pic.twitter.com/X9ZD7jqQdo
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 3, 2023
Ronaldo: Nobody knows how many clubs tried to sign me
Before Al-Nassr signed him to a record contract, Cristiano Ronaldo stated that clubs from all over the world, including ones in Europe, competed for his signing.
Ronaldo said that, personally, Saudi Arabia was the place he wanted to go and that it would have been simple for him to move elsewhere.
At his first press conference after joining Al-Nassr, Ronaldo remarked, “Nobody knows, but I can say now that I had many offers in Europe, many clubs in Brazil, in Australia, in the U.S., even in Portugal, many clubs sought to sign me.”
“However, I am grateful to this club for providing the chance to advance not only football but also this wonderful nation. I am aware of my desires as well as my dislikes.”
"Many clubs tried to sign me." āļø
Cristiano Ronaldo says he turned down multiple offers from Europe and North America ? pic.twitter.com/2gUxuqaVgo
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) January 3, 2023
Ronaldo on Al-Nassr transfer critics: They know nothing
After being introduced at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr, the Portuguese superstar has responded to critics.
Ronaldo’s choice to leave Manchester United and move to Saudi Arabia has drawn criticism, but he sent his critics a clear message in response.
“Although many people talk and express their ideas, they actually know nothing about football.”
“As you are aware, football has changed over the previous 10 to 15 years, with all teams being better prepared and more ready.” He informed the press.
“Therefore, coming to [Saudi Arabia] is not the end of my career for me; that is what I want to alter. I don’t care what others think.”
