Al-Nassr has transformed their early-season misfortune; a team that lost its first two games in the highly competitive Saudi Pro League is now back to winning ways. Cristiano Ronaldo, and the new addition, Sadio Mane, have been largely instrumental to the team’s success.
Celebrating Ronaldo’s impact in the Saudi Pro League and generally in the Arab world, Iranians gave him a highly dignified welcome ahead of their Asian Champions League match against Persepolis, the competition that coincided with the UEFA Champions League.
Cristiano Ronaldo receives special handwoven carpet
With his contract at Manchester United terminated, the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo at a Saudi Pro League team has sparked a wave of Ronaldo excitement in the Middle East. Arguably football’s most prominent figure is now set to represent Al-Nassr, becoming the face of the club.
Since his sensational move to the Saudi Pro League, Cristiano Ronaldo has been joined by some of the biggest names in football, including, but not limited to, Neymar Jr., Karim Benzema, N’golo Kante, Sadio Mane, and Aymeric Laporte.
Cristiano Ronaldo believes his influence in the SPL has significantly led to the improved football culture in Saudi Arabia. He pointed out: “I already knew, I keep saying: everyone thought I was crazy, crazy isn’t so crazy… It’s already normal to play in the Saudi Arabian league.
“As an Al-Nassr player, I knew this was going to happen; it’s a privilege to change a country’s culture and football, to have great stars. It makes me proud. I was the pioneer, and I feel proud of it. What I want most is to continue to evolve always so that I can be at the top.”
Al-Nassr has been in top form lately, and they are set to keep it that way in the Asian Champions League. The Riyyad-based team is poised to kick off their Asian Champions League campaign this Tuesday evening, coinciding with the commencement of the Champions League group stages. Their first match will see them face Persepolis on the same day.
Ronaldo has touched down in Iran, but a more interesting fact is that, ahead of the clash against the Iranian side, the 38-year-old legendary Portuguese footballer was seen receiving a unique handwoven carpet as a gift. Ronaldo appeared visibly impressed by the carpet, as captured in photos where he was photographed holding it up.
Al-Hilal soars to the summit, while Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr sits in sixth place
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr had a shaky start to the season after losing their first two games. Now they are sitting sixth on the Saudi Pro League table, while Al-Hilal sits comfortably at the top.
Al-Hilal, a team with a remarkable 18 league championships to their name, has been in exceptional form ever since surpassing their Clasico rivals, Al-Ittihad, following the conclusion of match week five. Under the leadership of Jorge Jesus, the team currently occupies the coveted top position in the league standings, boasting an impressive 16 points.
Al-Ittihad is second on the table, closely trailing Al-Hilal. They have 15 points this season. While Al-Ahli, making their return to the league, sit in third place.
With arguably the greatest footballer of all time (the GOAT) in their squad, Al-Nassr currently holds the sixth position in the standings. They can find comfort in their recent streak of five consecutive victories across all competitions.
Will CR7 be able to inspire Al-Nassr in winning the Asian Champions League? Tell us what you think in the comments.
