Cristiano Ronaldo reveals initial struggles in Saudi Arabia after $200 million move

The 38-year-old, however, first struggled to adjust to the intense Saudi Arabian heat which exceeds 40 degrees celsius.

Cristiano Ronaldo reveals initial struggles in Saudi Arabia after $200 million move

Cristiano practicing in gruelling heat. (credit: Khaleej Times)

Cristiano Ronaldo has brought the world’s eyes to Saudi Arabia. The forward made his move to Al-Nassr last year after falling out with Manchester United. The Portuguese opens up about his time in Saudi Arabia. He also comments on the Saudi Pro League.

The 38-year-old, however, first struggled to adjust to the intense Saudi Arabian heat. The summer temperatures in Saudi frequently exceed 40 degrees centigrade. The majority of training sessions are done in the evenings to avoid the heat. This is very different from how European clubs organize their training sessions. Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledged that it took him some time to get used to the change, but he is now comfortable in his new surroundings.

YouTube video

“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,” he said.“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,” added the superstar.

FS Video

The acquisition of further high talent excites the Portuguese, who think that the league will grow significantly over the following several years. “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,” the Portuguese added.

In case you missed it: WATCH: Cristiano Ronaldo gives weird and awkward reaction during Georgina Rodriguez’s speech at the launch of his brand

Zaha’s Al-Nassr move falling apart

st4hmsgrr8td96qm 1586238140
Wilfred Zaha celebrating a goal. (credit: Instagram)

Wilfried Zaha will become a free agent this summer. He is expected to leave Crystal Palace due to interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Nassr. Rumor has it that the 30-year-old attacker, though, will probably decline a £30 million deal from Saudi Arabia. Which is threefold the weekly salary of £200,000 that Crystal Palace is paying him in a new contract.

The Ivory Coast international prefers to stay in Europe and has no interest in joining Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr. He apparently previously spoke with PSG representatives informally. Luis Campos, the club’s sports director, is rumored to be a fan of the player and his game-changing skills.

Due to a hamstring issue, Zaha missed the final few months of the season for Crystal Palace. In 28 games for the club in all competitions last season, Zaha ended up scoring seven goals and dishing out two assists. Zaha has become a cult icon at Crystal Palace, but he appears to be leaving.

Related: