'The world's greatest celebrity!' - Cristiano Ronaldo's influence goes 'far beyond the world of football' but he's still underappreciated in Portugal, says new Al-Nassr coach

Jesus recently admitted that the Portuguese superstar was the primary reason he accepted the Al-Nassr job, having taken over this summer after leaving Al-Hilal. This time, he went on to express his deep admiration for the 40-year-old, criticising Portugal for not fully appreciating the forward’s legacy. He described Ronaldo as “the world’s greatest human figure” and “the world’s greatest celebrity,” insisting his influence extends far beyond the football pitch.

In a candid appearance on RTP’s Primeira Pessoa, Jesus delivered a passionate tribute to the ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star, saying: “It's a sporting challenge. Ronaldo is different, even in biological age, which is why he's 40 and still playing. We both think very much alike outside of football. I'm 70, but I don't feel it in my psychological and physical life. Ronaldo is a global figure. We don't know how to value Ronaldo in Portugal. He's the world's greatest human figure. He's the world's greatest celebrity. He's far beyond the world of football."

Jesus' arrival marks a reset moment for Al-Nassr after a frustrating season that ended without silverware and a semi-final AFC Champions League exit to Kawasaki Frontale. The club is banking on his relationship with Ronaldo to lead a revival. Ronaldo was the Saudi Pro League's top scorer with 25 goals as Al-Nassr finished 13 points behind champions Al-Ittihad and five behind Al-Hilal.

With Ronaldo’s leadership central to the project, Al-Nassr may look to bolster their squad further in the summer to match Jesus' ambitions. The club’s goal will be to win back the Saudi Pro League title and make a deeper run in continental competition.