24 Year-Old Star Admits ‘Not Liking’ Cristiano Ronaldo Before Watching Him With Al Nassr & Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo‘s contribution to soccer extends far beyond mere statistics. The Portuguese icon has won the biggest of titles and has ripped apart the public perception of what a soccer player can be. Even at the age of 39, his fitness and mentality continue to inspire everyone. Yet, for all of his achievements on and off the pitch, CR7 did not impress a Jordanian national team player a first. In fact, it was the switch to Saudi Arabia that endeared Ronaldo to the player’s heart.

Ali Alwan, striker of Qatari club Al Shamal, spoke on how his perception changed on Cristiano Ronaldo. He said, “I didn’t like Ronaldo. I liked it after I saw him with Portugal and he came to victory. He is a leadership player and can lead any club in the world.” Notably, the term victory refers to Ronaldo’s current side. The term Al Nassr is the Arabic word for victory or triumph.

Before arriving at Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s career was in turmoil. The Portuguese star had a disappointing Qatar World Cup 2022. He also had an unceremonious exit from Manchester United after a fallout with the manager. Hence, the Saudi move came at the right time as CR7’s form turned upside down.

This season he is the leading goalscorer in the league and single-handedly kept the Knights of Najd in the title race. His efforts have attracted a lot of attention, as evident from Alwan’s claims. Additionally, Ali Alwan also praised the Al Nassr star’s leadership skills. But, how exactly do Ronaldo’s leadership qualities help his teammates?

Cristiano Ronaldo’s leadership qualities are deemed ‘important’ by teammates

Midfielder Joao Palhinha knows quite well what CR7 brings to the table. He recently revealed Cristiano Ronaldo’s importance to the national side. Palhinha said, “It’s that leadership that he also has and how important he is.” 

Palhinha also stated that Ronaldo’s presence takes the pressure away from other players, allowing them to play freely. He explained, “That also ends up taking a bit of the pressure off us, because Cristiano is the one who ends up taking all the pressure, even when the team doesn’t win, it’s all on Cristiano.”

The feeling is similar at Al Nassr. Star forward Sadio Mane talked about the extent Ronaldo goes to help others out. Mane said, “He constantly gives me advice so I can improve. And I think that’s what our club needs to move forward.” Such compliments show why Cristiano Ronaldo remains such an important figure at club and national level in his age. It is also a key reason why youngsters like Ali Alwan are inspired by the 5-time Ballon d’Or winner.