Cristiano Ronaldo’s new comments in Saudi Arabia have disappointed the majority of his fan base. In his recent media interaction after featuring in the first half of Al-Nassr’s 5-0 preseason defeat against Celta Vigo, Cristiano Ronaldo voiced statements that left a majority of his fans disappointed.
Ronaldo, speaking in his native Portugal, made it clear, stating, “I will not make a comeback to European football. The door is firmly closed. At 38 years old, I believe European football has experienced a significant decline in quality.”
However, Ronaldo made a noteworthy exception when discussing the quality of leagues, stating, “The only league that maintains its high standards is the Premier League; they are far superior to all other leagues.”
These latest remarks have left fans disappointed, as they had hoped for Ronaldo’s potential return to Europe once his time at Al-Nassr concluded. Previous rumors had circulated, suggesting a possible comeback with clubs like Newcastle United or Sporting Lisbon. However, these speculations have lost their significance in light of his recent comments.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s stats in first season with Al Nassr:
19 appearances
14 goals
2 assists
2 hat-tricks (1 poker)🟡🔵🔥 pic.twitter.com/izRJ6qjyjr
— InfoCristiano 🇵🇹 (@InfoCristiano) June 28, 2023
Ronaldo identified two primary reasons for closing the door on Europe. Firstly, at 38 years old, he believes he is in the twilight of his career and may not be able to compete at the highest level he desires. Secondly, he expressed his concern that European soccer, except the Premier League, is experiencing a decline in quality across the board.
It appears that Ronaldo is fully committed to Saudi Arabia and aims to enhance the soccer landscape in the country, particularly in preparation for its bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2030.
What records does Cristiano Ronaldo holds in Europe?
With Ronaldo closing the door on Europe, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on his illustrious career in European soccer. He began his journey as a promising young talent at Sporting Lisbon.
Subsequently, he rose to superstardom during his time at Manchester United before securing a lucrative transfer to Real Madrid. Notably, he remained with Real Madrid for a remarkable nine years before embarking on a new chapter in Italy with Juventus.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s stats during his time at Manchester United is insane as a midfielder.🔥
But this time as a forward. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/ZfKMYmrfkV
— CristianoXtra (@CristianoXtra_) August 31, 2021
After a brief return to Manchester United for a 15-month stint, Ronaldo ultimately made his move to Saudi Arabia in 2023. Ronaldo left an indelible mark on European soccer. He made numerous records at club level in his 20 years in Europe. Let’s delve into the extraordinary achievements of this legendary player.
UEFA records at Club Level
Ronaldo holds the record for the most appearances in UEFA club competitions (197) and the most goals scored (145). He also holds the record for the most goals in a single UEFA Champions League season. He scored 17 goals during the 2013/14 season with Real Madrid.
Additionally, he has the highest number of goals in the UEFA Champions League knockout stages, with a total of 67 goals.
Throughout his career, Ronaldo has been the top scorer in the UEFA Champions League on seven occasions (in 2007/08, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2014/15, 2015/16, 2016/17, and 2017/18 seasons). He has made the most appearances in the UEFA Champions League (183). He is the only player to have scored in three UEFA Champions League finals.
🇵🇹 Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid:
• 450 goals
• 438 games
• 4 x Ballon d’Ors
• 4 x Champions League
• 3 x FIFA CWC
• 2 x La Liga
• 2 x Copa del Rey
• 2 x Spanish Super Copa
• 3 x UEFA Super Cup✨ 5 years since he left Real Madrid. pic.twitter.com/9vEk0tFvCV
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) July 10, 2023
Ronaldo achieved a remarkable feat by scoring in all six games of a UEFA Champions League group stage. He is one of only two players to achieve this milestone. He is also the only player to have scored in 11 consecutive UEFA Champions League games.
With four UEFA Best Player awards, Ronaldo holds the record for the most wins in this category. Furthermore, he has been selected for the UEFA.com users’ Team of the Year a remarkable 15 times.
Cristiano Ronaldo has set numerous UEFA records at the international level. It is expected that he will continue to add to his tally, as he has not yet retired from playing for Portugal.
