August 16, 2024
Following his troubled journey at Manchester United in 2021 and 2022, Ronaldo was forced to leave European football and rediscover his love for the game once again. But was Saudi Arabia the best choice?
One of the most prominent reasons Cristiano Ronaldo chose to continue his football career in Saudi Arabia is the substantial financial incentive. The contract offered by Al-Nassr, reportedly worth over €200 million annually, is an unprecedented sum in football history. For a player in the twilight of his career, such an offer was likely irresistible. Even if Ronaldo had the chance to win every wager on a bookmaker like 1Win bet in Indonesia, going to Saudi Arabia would still ensure him a better paycheck. While Ronaldo has earned hundreds of millions over his career, this deal significantly bolsters his financial legacy. The move to Saudi Arabia offered him the opportunity to command a salary that was unattainable in Europe, where financial fair play regulations and club budgets often constrain even the wealthiest clubs. Thus, the financial package from Saudi Arabia played a critical role in Ronaldo's decision to join Al-Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo - Skills and goals in Al Nassr:
Ronaldo's decision to move to Saudi Arabia was not solely motivated by financial gains; it also provided an opportunity to expand his influence and brand. Ronaldo has always been more than just a footballer; he is a global icon with business interests ranging from fashion to hospitality. Moving to Saudi Arabia, a country that is rapidly growing in international influence and economic power, allows Ronaldo to tap into a new market.
The Kingdom is investing heavily in sports and entertainment as part of its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce its dependence on oil. By becoming a centerpiece of this transformation, Ronaldo can position himself as a key figure in the global sports industry, thus expanding his brand's reach in the Middle East and beyond. His presence in Saudi Arabia is not just about football; it is about becoming an integral part of a nation that is increasingly becoming a hub for international sports and entertainment.
Despite the perception that moving to Saudi Arabia signals the winding down of Ronaldo's career, the Portuguese star remains fiercely competitive. His choice to join Al-Nassr also reflects his sporting ambitions. Ronaldo has spoken openly about his desire to continue playing at a high level for as long as possible. The move to Saudi Arabia presents a new challenge for Ronaldo, one that he has embraced. In his first year with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has continued to score goals and lead his team, showing that his passion for the game remains undiminished.
The Saudi Pro League is not at the level of Europe's top leagues, but it is growing, and Ronaldo's presence will undoubtedly accelerate its development. By joining Al-Nassr, Ronaldo can continue to add to his already illustrious career, setting records and achieving milestones in a new environment. This move also allows him to play a pivotal role in elevating the standard of football in the region, which will be a significant part of his legacy.
Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabia also carries significant political and cultural implications. Saudi Arabia has been investing heavily in sports as part of its broader strategy to enhance its global image and influence. Often labeled as sportswashing, this strategy involves using sports to project a positive image of the country, both domestically and internationally. By signing one of the world's most famous athletes, Saudi Arabia gains a powerful cultural ambassador.
Cristiano Ronaldo's presence in the country helps to attract global attention to Saudi Arabia's sporting ambitions and its efforts to modernize and open up to the world. Additionally, his move is symbolic of the broader geopolitical shifts happening in the region, where sports are being used as a tool for diplomacy and soft power. For Ronaldo, aligning himself with such a significant project could enhance his post-playing career opportunities, whether in sports administration, business, or diplomacy.
Beyond the professional and financial aspects, Ronaldo's decision may have also been influenced by personal and family considerations. By the time he moved to Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo had achieved everything in European football. The chance to experience a new culture, lifestyle, and environment could have been appealing for both him and his family. Saudi Arabia offers a different pace of life compared to the relentless pressure of European football, which may have been a factor as Ronaldo looks towards the latter stages of his career.
The safety, privacy, and comfort provided to high-profile residents in Saudi Arabia may have also been a significant factor. For a global superstar like Ronaldo, who is constantly in the public eye, the opportunity to live in a country where privacy is more respected might have been appealing.
Cristiano Ronaldo next game for Al Nassr is on August 17, against Al Hilal for the Saudi Super Cup. You can watch Al Nassr vs Al Hilal, Mallorca vs Real Madrid, Valencia vs Barcelona, Manchester United vs Fulham, Arsenal vs Wolverhampton and Ipswich Town vs Liverpool, all matches provided from our live soccer game pages.
Al Nassr next game:
Al Nassr vs Al Hilal kick-off time (17-08-2024):
Beijing (China) | UTC/GMT+8: 00:15
India (New Delhi) | UTC/GMT+5.30: 21:45
Saudi Arabia (Riyadh) | UTC/GMT+3: 19:15
Spain (Madrid) | UTC/GMT+2: 18:15
Portugal and England (Lisbon/London) | UTC/GMT+1: 17:15
Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) | UTC/GMT-3: 13:15
New York (United States) | UTC/GMT-3: 13:15
Los Angeles (United States) | UTC/GMT-6: 10:15
Sources: ronaldo7.net / optus.com.au / hrw.org
