Cristiano Ronaldo is back on European soil once more, as he returns for Portugal duty at the age of 37. Some had thought he might retire after the World Cup in Qatar, but seemingly he still has the desire to continue playing for the Selecao. He also has the competitive level too.
The Portuguese striker has claimed that he turned down European offers in order to join Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, but there is no doubt that many felt it was a step down for Ronaldo from Manchester United.
Yet the Portuguese superstar has told the Portuguese press (via MD) that the level of football in Saudi Arabia is high.
“I have been pleasantly surprised. Foreign players have different qualities. Five, six or seven years from now it will be the fourth or fifth most competitive league in the world if they continue with this same plan. I’m playing, I’m having minutes.”
He did admit that it had been a difficult end to the year, as Portugal were beaten by Morocco in the World Cup, while he himself left Manchester United amid no shortage of acrimony.
“I feel very good. This is my home. We have had time to think. I’ve been through difficulties and I didn’t want to throw in the towel. I saw Cristiano in situations that I had not seen before.”
“I’m happy because the coach counts on me. He had a conversation with all the players and also with me. I still have the desire to take Portugal to the top. Whenever the coach wants to count on me, I’ll be available.”
Portugal have a new manager in charge in Roberto Martinez, whom Ronaldo spoke highly of. The big question for the Spaniard will be whether he continues with Ronaldo in his starting XI, or drop him for in-form Goncalo Ramos.
