Wayne Lumbasi
Cristiano Ronaldo was presented as an Al Nassr player for the first time on Tuesday at Mrsool Park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in front of thousands of applauding supporters. For the first time in his illustrious career, the 37-year-old, who has five Ballon d’Or trophies and five Champions League wins, will play outside of Europe.
The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus forward has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Saudi Pro League, where he will reportedly earn $75 million per year, making him the highest-paid player in history.
“I’m so proud to make this big decision in my life. In Europe my work is done. I won everything and played for the most important clubs in Europe. This is a new challenge,” Ronaldo said.
Ronaldo claimed he had been courted by clubs all over the world after his turbulent departure from Manchester United in November, but decided to sign a contract with Al Nassr that would keep him with them until 2025.
Ronaldo arrives just weeks after the World Cup in neighbouring Qatar, and as Saudi Arabia considers a joint Asia-Africa-Europe bid to host football’s biggest tournament with Egypt and Greece.
