During an Al-Nassr training session, Cristiano Ronaldo astounded one of his new teammates by demonstrating that he is still as physically powerful as ever.
The global superstar, who will turn 38 in less than a month, joined the Saudi Arabian club at the end of December. Al-Nassr lead the Saudi Pro League, and Ronaldo might make his debut against Al-Ettifaq next Sunday.
His debut for the Middle Eastern giants has been delayed due to a ban he received in the Premier League following an incident during his second tenure with Manchester United. Meanwhile, he has been living in luxury with his family and training under Rudi Garcia to meet the demands of his new manager.
Any doubts regarding Ronaldo’s physical condition were swiftly dispelled when he was photographed jumping great distances off the ground in training to attempt and get on the end of a cross. His incredible leap left a teammate standing behind him speechless – it was reminiscent of his magnificent header for Juventus against Sampdoria in 2019.
Ronaldo stayed in shape after his contract at Manchester United expired in late November to prepare for his move to Al-Nassr. After Portugal were defeated from the World Cup in the quarter-finals by Morocco, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner worked solo at the Real Madrid training complex in December.
Garcia is delighted to have added Ronaldo to his side’s ranks and hailed his impact and attitude, even if he has been made to wait for his debut. “It’s great. Great for us, for Al-Nassr. Great for Saudi Arabia,” The Frenchman said of Ronaldo’s arrival.
” Cristiano Ronaldo is more than a player. He is one of the best players in the world. It’s amazing how much it’s put a spotlight on our club. Now, everyone knows where our club is around the world. We must have gone from 800,000 (followers) to 10million in a few hours, a few days, because of Cristiano’s arrival.
Garcia added: “The greatest champions are the easiest to manage. He (Ronaldo) blended in with the squad. We saw him joking and laughing with pleasure with his new team-mates. He was with us for the last game, even if he couldn’t play. He was in the locker room, riding his bike.”
Ronaldo is well-known for being diligent about his training and food regimen, which is why he has set so many records over his legendary career. Although many consider his move to Al-Nassr as the beginning of the end for the former Sporting Lisbon prodigy, he will be just as determined as ever to demonstrate that he can still make a significant impact in front of goal..
