Cristiano Ronaldo’s mind-boggling move to the Middle East has been confirmed, but previous interviews suggest this was a move he never would have imagined when he was in his prime
Ronaldo signed a contract until 2025 (Image: @AlNassrFC/Twitter)
Clips of Cristiano Ronaldo stating he wants to “finish in the top level” have re-emerged, after his move to Al Nassr was confirmed.
The Portuguese legend’s move to the Saudi Arabian side has officially been confirmed, barely one month after his contract at Manchester United was torn up. Ronaldo will reportedly pocket an eye-watering £177million per season in the Middle East.
While his jaw dropping salary is, by some distance, a world record, it is still far from the career defining crescendo many anticipated one of the greatest players in football history to have. And this has become even more apparent after clips of his interview on the Jonathan Ross Show were dug up.
Ronaldo was a guest on the iconic chat show in 2015, when he was at his very best with Real Madrid. Towards the end of his questioning, Ronaldo was asked about where he sees himself finishing his career.
His response was as emphatic and certain as his finishing with the Spanish giants. “In my mind, I want to finish in the top level,” Ronaldo said. “I want to finish with dignity in a good club.
“That doesn’t mean going to the USA, Qatar, or Dubai, is not good. But, I do not see myself [there].”
When Ronaldo’s future was becoming increasingly uncertain at Manchester United, the general feeling was that he wanted one last opportunity at winning the Champions League. In the summer, he was heavily linked with a move to Chelsea, but Thomas Tuchel, who was still the manager at the time, was reportedly not interested in signing him.
(Image: @AlNassrFC/Twitter)
Unfortunately for Ronaldo, there was a huge dearth of interest from European teams still competing in the competition. “Al Nassr’s vision is very inspiring and impressive. I look forward to a different league experience in a different country. I am excited to join my team-mates as soon as possible,” Ronaldo said after signing the club.
“I am fortunate that I have won everything I set out to win in European football and feel now that this is the right moment to share my experience in Asia.”
Source: dailystar.co.uk
