Saudi Arabia Welcomes Ronaldo at Al-Nassr Unveiling
Cristiano Ronaldo was officially presented for the first time by Al Nassr FC on Tuesday, in a lavish ceremony in which the star player slammed critics and announced his next football pursuits.
The famed superstar was given a grand entrance at Mrsool Park stadium, where he was greeted by explosive fireworks and a 25,000-person stadium crowd.
“It’s not the end of my career to come to Saudi Arabia. This is why I change and, to be honest, I’m really not worried about what people say,” Ronaldo said at his introductory press conference.
“I’m a unique player. It’s good to be here; I broke all the records there (in Europe), and I want to break a few more here,” Ronaldo added.
“I’m coming here to win, to play, to enjoy, to be a part of the country’s success and culture.”
The 37-year-old said he had several options with clubs, but Al Nassr was his top choice.
“I can say now that I had many opportunities in Europe, many clubs in Brazil, Australia, the USA, and even in Portugal tried to sign me.”
“Many clubs tried to sign me but I gave my word to this club, for the opportunity to have not only football but (to be) part of this amazing country. And it was a challenge for me,” said the five-time Champions League winner.
Rudi Garcia, the coach of Al Nassr, praised the signing of the Portuguese captain, calling him the “simplest to manage.”
“Great players like Cristiano are the simplest to manage in my experience because there’s nothing I can teach him,” the French coach told reporters.
“They are happy as well. When I take decisions my family support me, especially my kids! They are very happy, the welcome was amazing, we feel good. Saudi Arabian people are lovely with me and my family.”
Ronaldo joins the nine-time Saudi champions and has not yet announced when he will make his debut.
Al Nassr will play its first game of the season on 5 January against Al-Tai Football Club, and will compete in the highly anticipated Saudi Super Cup on 25 January.
