Cristiano Ronaldo still 'brightens up every game' & scores 'amazing goals' as 40-year-old Al-Nassr star earns praise from fellow Portuguese in Saudi Pro League

Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo has earned all-time great status as a result of his ability to illuminate almost any contest that he graces. A remarkable career has taken him from Sporting to Saudi Arabia via Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

At 40 years of age, CR7 is showing no sign of slowing down. He has hit 32 goals through 36 appearances for Al-Nassr this season and continues to chase down 1,000 in total before any thought is given to retirement.

Fellow Portuguese Paulo Sergio, who is also in the Saudi Pro League as manager of Al-Okhdood, remains in awe of Ronaldo. He has told Lusa: “Cristiano is a flag bearer for the championship. He drives all the marketing around this league, gives it a lot of visibility and continues to score amazing goals and brighten up every game he takes part in.”

Ronaldo helped to break down barriers when moving to the Middle East in 2023, with Paulo Sergio impressed with how quickly the Saudi league has developed since his previous stint with Al Taawoun in 2019. He added: “At the time, it was already a championship with a lot of good players. Now, with permission to play with eight foreigners and with a very strong investment in football, it is a well thought out and structured project. Top-notch players are coming here, who would certainly be playing in the best championships in Europe.”

Ronaldo has been joined in Saudi Arabia by a number of other household names, but he remains the biggest draw for fans. The expectation is that an extension will soon be agreed to his record-breaking contract, which is due to expire this summer.