Roberto Martinez Considers Cristiano Ronaldo’s Decision To Join Al Nassr a Right One Despite Being Slammed By Insensitive Trolls

Cristiano Ronaldo signed a blockbuster $500 million deal with Saudi side Al-Nassr last year for a two-year contract. Many fans around the world were left bewildered by his decision, as they mocked his approach. Portugal’s head coach, Roberto Martinez, however, believed the player made the right decision to join the Knights of Najd.

Ronaldo, following his move to Al Nassr, has made a complete 180 in his career. While the player was seen struggling during the World Cup and with Manchester United in 2022, the Portuguese has found his groove following his arrival in Riyadh. And his gaffer seems to agree.

Roberto Martinez lauds Cristiano’s decision to move to Al Nassr

Portugal’s head coach, Roberto Martinez, was full of praise for Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr. The Portuguese talisman has proven his critics wrong and shown that he can still operate at the top level, even if it is in a league outside Europe.

The Portuguese head coach claimed, “When he decides to go to the Saudi Pro League is to win the championship, to be THE reference player. His level of demands on himself is the same: to be the captain and bring the necessary intensity to each meeting. So when he returns to the selection, he is ready. He is not there to rest.”

Martinez then added, “Some go to other championships and their level drops in the selection. Cristiano was in a championship that has a new project. It was the perfect moment, and he is proud of it. Then the numbers are there. He is the top scorer in 2023, ahead of players in their prime, like Haaland or Mbappé.” (Translated using DeepL)

A major section of fans around the world questioned the 5x Ballon d’Or winner’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia. Fans believed the player was at the fag end of his career, but the Al Nassr captain has proven everyone wrong with his performances.

Cristiano Ronaldo shuts down his trolls following Al Nassr move

When the Portuguese moved to Saudi Arabia, many believed the player should have gracefully retired rather than soiling his legacy in a C-Tier league. However, Ronaldo, following his move to Al Nassr, has completely changed the landscape of the league. Notably, at this stage of the season, he currently stands atop the goals-scored board with 15. Al Nassr too seems to be doing well, as they sit second behind title favorites Al Hilal.

The Portuguese talisman, moreover, has become the face of soccer in the Gulf and has attracted some of the big names to the league. Players, as a result, have flocked to the nation in search of big-money deals. Be that as it may, some words of belief from his national coach will likely be appreciated by the enigmatic forward.

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