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December 13, 2024
When Ronaldo announced to the world he was going to play in Saudi Arabia, many football enthusiasts were a bit skeptical about his decision. All of a sudden, the best player in the world left Europe and embarked on a journey to the unknown...
Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious career shows no signs of slowing down as he approaches his 40th birthday. Currently dominating the Saudi Pro League with Al Nassr, Ronaldo's influence extends far beyond the football pitch, reshaping global perceptions of Middle Eastern football. Ronaldo's presence and global appeal extend far beyond the pitch. For example, Ronaldo is one of the most bet-on sportsmen in the world. His transfer to Al Nassr led to a 300% increase in online betting activity focused exclusively on the Saudi League, with several international sportsbooks capitalizing on this surge in interest. The most popular bets related to Ronaldo include any time goalscorer and first goalscorer. His influence spans traditional sports betting, crypto sportsbook platforms, and esports, reflecting his broad appeal and status as a global sports icon.
Cristiano Ronaldo - All goals in 2024:
Ronaldo's move to Al Nassr in early 2023 wasn't just a transfer; it was a seismic shift for the Saudi Pro League. Critics labeled it as a final hurrah for a player past his prime, but Ronaldo responded by breaking records and lifting his team to new heights. Over two seasons, he has scored 64 goals in just 71 appearances, including a stunning hat-trick against Al Hilal that solidified Al Nassr's position at the top of the league table earlier this season.
His presence has been a magnet for global attention, prompting clubs across Saudi Arabia to recruit marquee players. With Al Nassr benefiting financially and competitively, Ronaldo's signing has proven to be more than just a football decision; it's the foundation of Saudi Arabia's vision to elevate its global sports profile.
Additionally, Ronaldo has transformed Al Nassr into a global brand. The club's social media following has exploded, merchandise sales have tripled, and ticket demand has reached unprecedented levels. Matches featuring Ronaldo are now broadcast to over 120 countries, a testament to the worldwide appeal he commands.
What sets Ronaldo apart is not just his on-field brilliance but his off-field impact. His rigorous professionalism has influenced Al Nassr's younger players, instilling a culture of excellence within the team.
According to insiders, Ronaldo often stays back after training to mentor the younger squad members, sharing insights into his fitness routine and work ethic.
Even the coaching staff has benefited from his presence. Manager Luís Castro recently revealed how Ronaldo's footballing IQ has contributed to tactical discussions, making Al Nassr not just a team of stars but a cohesive unit capable of taking on Asia's best clubs.
Ronaldo's current contract with Al Nassr runs through the end of the 2024/25 season, but speculation about an extension has already begun. Al Nassr's management is reportedly eager to keep their star player for longer, seeing him as essential to their long-term strategy.
The stakes are high. Retaining Ronaldo could position Al Nassr to secure bigger sponsorship deals and expand their fan base further. His continued presence would strengthen the Saudi Pro League's appeal to international broadcasters, ensuring its growth well beyond Ronaldo's eventual retirement.
For Ronaldo, staying with Al Nassr aligns with his personal goals, particularly his desire to remain match-fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. By leading Al Nassr to continental glory and staying competitive, Ronaldo could secure another landmark achievement in his storied career.
One of Ronaldo's most significant contributions to Al Nassr has been their performance in Asian competitions. The team has progressed further in the AFC Champions League than ever before, with Ronaldo delivering match-winning performances against formidable opponents like Al Duhail. His leadership has turned Al Nassr into a legitimate contender for the trophy, something that seemed distant before his arrival.
Winning the AFC Champions League would not only secure Ronaldo's legacy in the region but also elevate Al Nassr into the pantheon of elite Asian clubs. This ambition aligns perfectly with Saudi Arabia's broader goals of being at the forefront of global sports, with Ronaldo as the ultimate ambassador.
Ronaldo's arrival has triggered a domino effect in Saudi football. His presence convinced other global stars to join the league, creating a ripple that reshaped its competitive dynamics. Players like Karim Benzema, Sadio Mané, and Neymar have since followed in his footsteps, elevating the league’s profile to unprecedented levels.
This influx of talent has created a new standard of football in Saudi Arabia. Al Nassr, under Ronaldo's guidance, has not only embraced this competitive environment but thrived in it. Their clashes with rivals like Al Hilal have become must-watch fixtures, showcasing the league’s rising quality to global audiences.
Off the pitch, Ronaldo's digital ventures have been equally groundbreaking. His recent collaboration with YouTube star Mr Beast brought a surge of new followers to his channel, highlighting his appeal to younger audiences. The video, a mix of football challenges and lifestyle insights, garnered millions of views within hours, making Ronaldo a crossover icon in sports and entertainment.
This digital push reflects Ronaldo's adaptability. While many players focus solely on their on-field legacies, Ronaldo has embraced opportunities to connect with fans innovatively, ensuring his relevance in an ever-evolving cultural landscape.
Ronaldo's time at Al Nassr has been a masterclass in defying expectations. Initially dismissed as a commercial move, his transfer has instead become one of the most significant chapters in his career.
Through leadership, record-breaking performances, and a vision for the future, Ronaldo has redefined what it means to be a footballing icon.
As Al Nassr continues its journey in the Saudi Pro League and beyond, Ronaldo remains at the center of it all. Whether he extends his contract or not, his influence will resonate for years to come, shaping the club’s identity and inspiring a new generation of players to aim for greatness.
Cristiano Ronaldo next game for Al Nassr is on January 9, against Al Akhdoud for the Saudi Pro League. You can watch Al Nassr vs Al Akhdoud, Atalanta vs Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen vs Inter, Girona vs Liverpool, RB Salzburg vs PSG and Shakhtar vs Bayern Munich, all matches provided from our football live game pages.
Al Nassr next game:
Al Nassr vs Al Akhdoud kick-off time (09-01-2025):
Beijing (China) | UTC/GMT+7: 00:00
India (New Delhi) | UTC/GMT+4.30: 21:30
Saudi Arabia (Riyadh) | UTC/GMT+2: 19:00
Spain (Madrid) | UTC/GMT+1: 18:00
Portugal and England (Lisbon/London) | UTC/GMT+0: 17:00
Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) | UTC/GMT-3: 14:00
New York (United States) | UTC/GMT-4: 13:00
Los Angeles (United States) | UTC/GMT-7: 10:00
Sources: ronaldo7.net / bbc.com / olympics.com
