“Cristiano Ronaldo Should Be a Mirror For All of Us” – Lionel Messi’s Ex-Teammate Takes U-Turn On the Al Nassr Star

Cristiano Ronaldo has the gravitas to, perhaps, attract anyone. Even his rivals have basked in the player’s greatness. While many have remained divided when it comes to picking the greatest of all time between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, former Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic brings in a rather new perception!

The ex-Blaugrana star infamously snubbed Cristiano Ronaldo in an interview back in 2020. Rakitic claimed no player comes close to Lionel Messi when it comes to being the best soccer player in the world. However, it looks like a stint in the Middle East for Al Shadab has been an eye-opening experience for the Croatian.

Rakitic talked about facing Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League, claiming the Al Nassr skipper has kept himself at the top despite his age. “First of all, biggest respect to Ronaldo. He is one of the best players in history for sure. The mentality and personality that Ronaldo has should be a mirror for all of us. All of us, even if we can get 1% of this winning mentality, it will be so much.”

The Al Shadab star then added, “Right now, he’s the first guy in the gym. He’s the last to move out. He is always preparing for the next day and after his first goal, he always wants the second goal. I saw it in his eyes, the concentration he had for the penalty. He’s there where he has to be.”

Cristiano Ronaldo has been putting on the work since he joined Al Nassr. The Portuguese talisman has been on fire for the club, breaking multiple records for the franchise. Despite his accolades, he shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.

Cristiano Ronaldo expected to be back against Al Khaleej

The Al Nassr skipper will return to action later this week as Al Nassr returns to league competition. Luis Castro’s side will be up against Al Khaleej as they look to chase down Al Hilal. Time is slowly running out for the Knights of Najd and a win is the only hope of staying in contention for the league title. With Cristiano back with the team during their latest training session, the team will get a boost of momentum before heading into the game.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been out of action after he was slapped with a one-game suspension following his antics against Al Hilal. While the player was initially hit with a two-game ban, the decision was reduced to one game following Al Nassr’s appeal. Fans will hope that the player can pick off from right where he left and hit the ground running for Al Nassr.