Portuguese football legend, Cristiano Ronaldo has openly discussed the challenges he faced in adapting to the extreme heat and different training schedules in Saudi Arabia.
Ronaldo secured a move to Saudi Pro League in the winter transfer window last season after his fallout with Manchester United. This came after an ugly ending with Manchester United when he publicly criticized the club and manager Erik Ten Hag in an interview with Piers Morgan. The English giants terminated his contract as he decided to leave Europe and joined Al Nassr.
The 38-year-old ended his first season at Al Nassr trophyless but he did shine on a few occasions with his supreme performance on the field.
Speaking to LiveScore, Cristiano Ronaldo said that the big difference he found in Saudi is the weather but he has now gotten used to the heat.
He said;
“The biggest difference I have found in Saudi is obviously the heat and adapting schedules to train later in the day when it is cooler. But I have really gotten used to that now. The fans here have been incredible to me, welcoming me, and those that follow me to continue on this amazing journey.
“Every league and country is different and I am very proud to have experienced three different leagues in Europe (and won titles in them all).”
On the Saudi Pro league getting attention around the world, Ronaldo said;
“It hasn’t surprised me but it makes me really happy to see people all across the world now watching the Saudi Pro League. I believe the league will continue to develop and many more players from European leagues will come here to play.”
After Ronaldo’s massive move, other Saudi teams have been targeting star players from Europe. Karim Benzema recently joined Al Ittihad while Chelsea’s Ngolo Kante is also expected to play in the Saudi Pro League.
