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Pioli revealed his favourite quality of Ronaldo stating that the Portuguese superstar still has the enthusiasm and passion of that of a young boy despite his advancing age.
Cristiano Ronaldo. (X)
Al-Nassr boss Stefano Pioli has shared his thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo’s unbelievable longevity. The Portuguese superstar continues to impress with his fitness and scoring skills at the age of 39. As part of the Saudi Pro League outfit, Ronaldo registered 44 goals and 13 assists across all competitions last season. He has looked equally impressive in the ongoing campaign. Ronaldo aims to breach the 1000-goal mark in professional football before hanging up his boots. His current contract with Al Nassr is set to expire in the summer of 2025.
It’s not yet confirmed if Ronaldo will extend his stay in Riyadh or will consider a return to Europe. Amid growing speculations over his future, Pioli has explained what quality of Ronaldo has impressed him the most. The duo has been working together at Al Nassr since September this year when Pioli replaced Luis Castro to become the new manager.
“Of course, I have always thought that Cristiano is a great champion. But above all, a great professional with a great work ethic, and a great culture of always trying to express oneself to the maximum. And, therefore, I am discovering a boy who is no longer young, but with the same enthusiasm, with the same passion,” PiolI said about the Al Nassr captain during an interview with the club’s official website.
“When he (Ronaldo) was a kid, he wanted to do things, wanting to always try to give the best, to reach the maximum, to score many goals and to help the team. So, definitely, a pleasant surprise,” the former AC Milan coach added.
In the 2024-25 season, Ronaldo has featured in 19 matches for Al Nassr across all tournaments. He has struck the net 16 times while providing three assists. Despite his impressive stats, Ronaldo has won just one trophy with Al Nassr since joining them in the winter of 2023.
Only six months after his arrival, the Riyadh-based side won the Arab Club Champions Cup. Ronaldo scored a brace in the final against Al Hilal. Earlier in September, Ronaldo became the first player in history to record 900 career goals. He achieved the feat during a Nations League game against Croatia.
