Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has finally lifted the lid on what inspired his decision to complete a move to Al-Nassr. Ahead of his grand unveiling as a new player of the Saudi club, the 38-year-old addressed the media, citing the end to his adventure in Europe and his desire to continue scoring goals as his motivations.
On Tuesday, Ronaldo was unveiled as a new Al-Nassr player in front of thousands of fans inside the club's Mrsool Park in Riyadh. The ceremony came days after the Portuguese talisman penned a contract that runs until 2025. The player's decision also marked an end to a couple of months of uncertainty surrounding his future after he reached an agreement with Manchester United to terminate his contract.
Speaking to the media ahead of the unveiling ceremony, Ronaldo stated that he was 'very happy and proud' to decide to join Al-Nassr', insisting that he had no regrets about the switch as he was looking forward to the new challenge.
"I am so proud to make this decision in my life. In Europe, my work is done. I played in the most important clubs. For me now, it's a new challenge, as you mentioned in Asia. I am glad and thankful to Al-Nassr for giving me this opportunity to show and develop not only football but also the younger generation. For me, it's a challenge, but I feel very happy and very proud.
"This is a great opportunity, not only in football but also to change the mentality of the newer generation," Ronaldo added.
"Nobody knows, but I can say now that I had many opportunities in Europe, many clubs in Brazil, in Australia, in US even in Portugal, many clubs tried to sign me. But I gave my word to this club, for the opportunity to develop not only football but this amazing country. I know what I want and, of course, what I don't want as well.
Ronaldo.. Ronaldo.. Ronaldo pic.twitter.com/b5gHbSEJfn
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) January 3, 2023
"So, it's a good chance to change and help with my knowledge and experience. To help grow many important points, for instance, the women's team. Many people don't know, but Al-Nassr also has a women's football team, and I want to give a different vision of the country, of football, and the perspective of everybody. So, this is why I took this opportunity," the Portuguese striker stated.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner also revealed that his family is happy about his move and were fully supportive of his decision to make the switch to Saudi Arabia. "They are happy as well. When I take decisions, my family always support me - especially my kids. The welcoming was amazing. We feel good here. Saudi Arabian people are lovely to my family and me. So I am proud."
Cristiano Ronaldo's record contract makes him the highest-paid football player in history, with the Portuguese earning a whooping $75 million per year.
