Home/Soccer

via Imago

via Imago

Cristiano Ronaldo shocked the soccer world after making a surprise move to Al Nassr. The Portuguese superstar penned a mouth-watering $200 million-per-year deal in December. Since then, it has been a rollercoaster ride for the striker. A lot has happened since his big money move, with the majority of it resulting in an upset.

The 38-year-old made the switch to Saudi Arabia with lofty ambitions. However, things have gone sour for Ronaldo. Aside from scoring goals, he is still facing heavy criticism from the majority of fans. In fact, according to a former coach, his move to Al Nassr has been dubbed a mistake.

Did Cristiano Ronaldo make a mistake by joining Al Nassr?

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

It hasn’t been the transfer that Ronaldo expected it to be. The Portuguese skipper has been the subject of criticism from Middle Eastern spectators. Many are showing him the mirror of his decision to move abroad. In fact, his fellow countrymen coach, José Rachão, who has managed several sides of the Saudi Pro League, believes his move was a mistake.

“Honestly, no matter how much we value money, money is not everything in life. Health is more important. He went there to earn a lot of money, but he has no chance. If a person goes to one of these countries after professional improvement, it is a pure mistake.” The Portuguese coach had some harsh words for Ronaldo.

via Imago

“The competitive pace is not the same as in Europe, everything is completely different. For everything Ronaldo has done in life, he is an example for everything he has done. It is a source of pride for the Portuguese, regardless of who likes it and who doesn’t. But this was not the fate I wanted for Cristiano Ronaldo, he won’t value anything,” Rachão added.

READ MORE: “His Performance Is Low” – After Shock Draw With Cristiano Ronaldo Firing Blank Al Nassr Coach Discusses Poor Form of CR7’s Strike Partner

The 70-year-old manager, who has managed the likes of Najran SC and Abha, believes Ronaldo should have reconsidered his decision. Either way, the former Madrid man is in no mood to hear such constructive criticism as he recently endured another league upset.

Domestic problems continue to pester

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Ronaldo must be second-guessing his big-money move. In fact, he must be already thinking about his prophecy with Al Nassr, who recently suffered a huge domestic blow. The Jeddah-based club played a 1-1 draw against bottom side Al Khaleej. Dinko Jeličić’s side conceded in just five minutes.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

However, a goal from Álvaro González gave the home side a lifeline. Unfortunately, neither side could salvage a win, as they had to settle for a draw. The result has kept Al Nassr in second place. They are five points behind their arch-rivals, Al Ittihad. Indeed, it’s time for Ronaldo and co. to buckle up if they are keen to win any silverware this season.

WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Four Goals in a Game