One of the greatest soccer players of this generation, Cristiano Ronaldo, ended his European club soccer journey on Friday. The Portuguese signed for the Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr FC in a blockbuster deal. Ronaldo’s move to the Asian club at the twilight of his career made his fans emotional and wanted him to keep competing at a high level.
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Ronaldo, who has won everything that was on offer in Euro. He played for some of the best clubs (Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus) in Europe. The five-time Ballon d’Or is now ready to embark on his journey in an unfamiliar league for the fans. Fans have reacted to the news emotionally. However, the Instagram story of his nephew has caught eyes of the social media users.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s nephew reacts to the move
Cristiano Ronaldo’s family is known to have his back on social media under any circumstances. They have always defended the Portuguese star. But the two-word response of his nephew on social media that says, “The end,” has shocked most of the fans.
Cristiano's nephew on his Instagram story. pic.twitter.com/Na3WwZvjoZ
— The CR7 Timeline. (@TimelineCR7) December 31, 2022
Is he trying to imply that it’s an end to Ronaldo playing at the elite club? Many fans are unhappy with Ronaldo picking a move to the Saudi league. The figures involved in the deal are astonishing and would have been difficult for the 37-year-old to get from elite European clubs.
Ronaldo will join David Ospina, Colombian goalkeeper at Al-Nassr FC, managed by French Rudi Garcia. Many soccer stars choose less competitive leagues towards the end of their career. Andres Iniesta currently plays in Japan, whereas his Spanish teammate Xavi plied his trade in Qatar before becoming a manager.
History in the making. This is a signing that will not only inspire our club to achieve even greater success but inspire our league, our nation and future generations, boys and girls to be the best version of themselves. Welcome @Cristiano to your new home @AlNassrFC pic.twitter.com/oan7nu8NWC
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) December 30, 2022
Reports also link Al-Nassr with a move for some elite players in Europe and will hope to rope them in after Ronaldo. The former Real Madrid star and his entourage made enormous efforts to land a deal with a European club as the player was keen to play UEFA Champions League soccer.
What made Cristiano Ronaldo sign for Al-Nassr FC?
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After a controversial interview with Piers Morgan, where the 37-year-old criticized Manchester United’s hierarchy, manager, and former legends, the club ended his contract. He was a free agent and has been trying to move to another club since the summer.
His age came as a significant barrier, along with salary demands. A host of European clubs like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, PSG, and Napoli turned down the chance to sign him. To add to that Saudi Arabian club with a lucrative offer that will make him the highest-paid athlete.
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Owing to all these factors, the player decided to accept the offer and signed the contract on Friday in Madrid. Let us know your thoughts on the reaction of Cristiano Ronaldo’s nephew to the transfer.