Chance creation
Playmaking output: assists, key passes, and custom chance-creation signals.
Campionato Primavera - 2 · Defender · #0 · Italy · 17 yrs
D. Cristiano is a defender. D. Cristiano is a Italian international, 17 years old, defender. D. Cristiano was born in Italy on 2008-01-04. D. Cristiano's Sportra profile tracks season statistics across Campionato Primavera - 2. D. Cristiano's page brings together career clubs, trophies, injury history, multi-competition stats, and related news headlines. On Sportra you can explore D. Cristiano season statistics, transfer history, trophies, injury updates, and related news across every competition tracked in the profile.
Defender · #0
Season intelligence
Profile as Defender: balanced output without a single dominant trait. Archetype: Balanced contributor.
Scaled 0–99 from season output — map to fantasy, comparisons, or scouting cards.
Per-90 rates, efficiency ratios, and Sportra indices from season totals.
Playmaking output: assists, key passes, and custom chance-creation signals.
Every tracked category for this league and season, grouped by Sportra.
D. Cristiano is a defender. D. Cristiano is a Italian international, 17 years old, defender. D. Cristiano was born in Italy on 2008-01-04. D. Cristiano's Sportra profile tracks season statistics across Campionato Primavera - 2. D. Cristiano's page brings together career clubs, trophies, injury history, multi-competition stats, and related news headlines. On Sportra you can explore D. Cristiano season statistics, transfer history, trophies, injury updates, and related news across every competition tracked in the profile.
Defender · #0
Season intelligence
Profile as Defender: balanced output without a single dominant trait. Archetype: Balanced contributor.
Scaled 0–99 from season output — map to fantasy, comparisons, or scouting cards.
Per-90 rates, efficiency ratios, and Sportra indices from season totals.
Playmaking output: assists, key passes, and custom chance-creation signals.
Every tracked category for this league and season, grouped by Sportra.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been nominated for the 2025-26 SPL Player of the Season award, but is facing a fierce competition from Ivan Toney and his own teammate Joao Felix. Cristiano Ronaldo has been nominated for the Player of the Season award in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League after another standout campaign at Al Nassr. However, the Portuguese legend will face stiff competition from Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney and his own teammate Joao Felix in the race for the honor. On Sunday, the Saudi Pro League published its 2025-26 Season Awards nominees on its official website, with Ronaldo once again among those in the running for the top individual prize of the campaign. Alongside the Player of the Season, the other categories up for grabs include Saudi Player of the Season, Manager of the Season and Best Young Talent of the Season. Voting opened on Sunday, with the winners set to be revealed once the league season concludes. As with the previous edition, the voting breakdown has already been established. The head coaches and captains of all 18 SPL clubs will each account for 40 percent of the overall vote, the Kingdom’s leading sports journalists will contribute 15 percent, and fans of the league will make up the remaining 5 percent. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Roshn Saudi League (@spl_en) Ronaldo will have the chance to potentially clinch the SPL title when Al Nassr host Damac FC on Thursday, May 21, in what could be the day he ends the club’s long trophy drought. The following day, Friday, May 22, following the conclusion of the final matchweek, the award winners will be officially announced. Cristiano Ronaldo and the competition for SPL Player of the Season Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has consistently been one of the most impactful players in the league, and this season has been no different, with his performances at the heart of Al Nassr’s push for the title. On an individual level, the 41-year-old has posted 26 goals and three assists across 29 games, placing him among the leaders in direct goal contributions. The competition, however, is fierce. Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney currently leads the SPL scoring charts with 32 goals and six assists in 31 games, while Mexican international Julian Quiñones has registered 30 goals and four assists in 30 appearances for Al Qadsiah. Joao Felix, Ronaldo’s Al Nassr teammate, rounds out the standout candidates with 20 goals and 13 assists across 32 games, a combination of goalscoring and creativity that makes him a compelling contender. One potential advantage for the Al Nassr duo is the trend established by recent award winners. Karim Benzema claimed the Player of the Season in 2024-25 and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in 2023-24, with both Al Ittihad and Al Hilal producing those winners respectively. The pattern suggests that team success carries significant weight with voters, which could tip the balance in favor of players from a title-winning side. SPL Awards: categories and nominees Player of the Season Ivan Toney (Al Ahli)Julian Quiñones (Al Qadsiah)Ruben Neves (Al Hilal)Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)Joao Felix (Al Nassr) Best Young Talent of the Season Hammam Al Hammami (Al Shabab)Abdulaziz Al Elewa (Al Kholood)Abdulaziz Al Suwailem (Al Fateh)Sabri Dahal (Al Fayha)Sultan Harun (Al Riyadh) Manager of the Season Jorge Jesus (Al Nassr)Matthias Jaissle (Al Ahli)Brendan Rodgers (Al Qadsiah)Simone Inzaghi (Al Hilal)Saad Al Shehri (Al Ettifaq) Saudi Player of the Season Salem Al Dawsari (Al Hilal)Khalid Al Ghannam (Al Ettifaq)Musab Al Juwayr (Al Qadsiah)Abdulelah Al Amri (Al Nassr)Hattan Bahebri (Al Kholood)
Cristiano Ronaldo could soon experience another major change at Al-Nassr, with growing reports suggesting Jorge Jesus is already preparing for life away from the Riyadh giant once the season comes to an end. Cristiano Ronaldo could soon experience another major change at Al-Nassr, with growing reports suggesting Jorge Jesus is already preparing for life away from the Riyadh giant once the season comes to an end. The Portuguese manager has enjoyed an impressive campaign at the club, yet recent developments indicate his long-term future may already be decided despite the team still competing for major silverware. At the same time, the Portuguese duo remains fully focused on delivering success in both domestic and continental competition. With the Saudi Pro League title race still alive and an AFC Champions League Two final approaching, the timing of the speculation surrounding Jorge Jesus has created even more intrigue around the club’s immediate future. According to reports from ESPN Brasil journalist Bruno Andrade, Jorge Jesus does not intend to renew his contract with Al-Nassr beyond the current campaign. Although the veteran coach is said to be happy with life in Saudi Arabia, his ambitions reportedly stretch far beyond club soccer. “Jorge Jesus does not intend to renew his contract with Al-Nassr for the next season,” the report stated, while also revealing that the Portuguese tactician is already thinking about another dream role in soccer management. Jorge Jesus, Head Coach of Al Nassr reacts The update comes as a major surprise considering the strong season Al-Nassr has produced under Jesus. The club remains in contention for a domestic and continental double, while Ronaldo himself has enjoyed one of the most productive campaigns of his career despite already being 41 years old. Jesus’ dream destination comes to light The report has also revealed the deeper motivation that lies in Jesus’ future. Apparently, the 71-year-old’s preferred destination is the Portugal national team job after the 2026 World Cup, with current coach Roberto Martinez expected to leave after the tournament. That option instantly alters the context of his current situation in Al-Nassr. Rather than negotiating a new long-term contract in the Middle East, Jesus reportedly wants to position himself as a leading candidate to guide Portugal into the 2030 World Cup cycle, especially with the tournament set to be hosted partly by Portugal. “The coach has the ambition to take over the command of the Portugal national team after the World Cup,” ESPN Brasil added. Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal hugs head coach Roberto Martinez For Portuguese soccer, the possibility carries enormous significance. Jesus has built one of the most decorated managerial careers in Portuguese club history, and managing the national team would represent the final major challenge of his coaching journey. And with Jose Mourinho nearing a return to Real Madrid, the path ahead of him is all but paved. Defining summer approaching for Al-Nassr The next few weeks could reshape the future of the club entirely. Ronaldo may finally secure the league title he has chased for years, while Jorge Jesus could potentially leave after delivering one of the most successful seasons in recent Al-Nassr history. At the same time, the possibility of him becoming Portugal manager after the 2026 World Cup adds another fascinating layer to the story. For now, though, the veteran boss appears determined to finish the season strongly before making any official move.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus are heading into one of the biggest nights of Al-Nassr’s recent history under unusual circumstances, with Marcelo Brozovic and Kingsley Coman both struggling with injuries ahead of the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka. Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus are heading into one of the biggest nights of Al-Nassr’s recent history under unusual circumstances, with Marcelo Brozovic and Kingsley Coman both struggling with injuries ahead of the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka. Yet despite the magnitude of the occasion and the growing injury list, reports from Saudi Arabia suggest the Portuguese superstar could surprisingly begin the match on the bench. The Riyadh side stands on the edge of a potentially historic weekend. Al-Nassr could secure continental glory in front of its own supporters at Al-Awwal Park, while events elsewhere in the Saudi Pro League could also hand the club another major celebration before it even kicks off against the Japanese side. The AFC Champions League Two final arrives at a critical moment for Al-Nassr. Jorge Jesus’ side is still recovering emotionally from a dramatic 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal, a result that delayed what could have been an immediate domestic title celebration. A costly mistake from goalkeeper Bento prevented the club from wrapping up the league crown in midweek. Even so, the Knight of Najd remains in a commanding position domestically and still controls its destiny heading into the final round against Damac. Before that decisive league fixture, however, attention shifts fully toward Asia. The clash against Gamba Osaka represents a huge opportunity for Cristiano Ronaldo to finally lift his first major trophy with Al-Nassr after several near misses in both domestic and continental competitions. Ruben Neves looks on following the Saudi Pro League match between Al Nassr and Al Hilal. The final also carries enormous symbolic weight for Ronaldo personally. After conquering Europe with five UEFA Champions League titles during his time at Real Madrid, the Portuguese forward now has the chance to add another continental crown on a different stage. Injury concerns create difficult situation for Jorge Jesus Preparations for the final have been far from ideal. According to reports from Arriyadiyah, several important players missed training and instead underwent treatment sessions at the club’s medical facility. “The injured group included Marcelo Brozovic, Angelo, Abdullah Al Khaibari, Abdulelah Al Amri, and Kingsley Coman.” The report added that Brozovic is currently considered the least likely player to recover in time for the final against Gamba Osaka. That development creates a major headache for Jorge Jesus, especially given the Croatian midfielder’s importance in controlling matches and dictating tempo. Marcelo Brozovic of Al Nassr Coman’s absence is equally concerning because the French winger has been one of Al-Nassr’s standout performers throughout the AFC Champions League Two campaign. The former Bayern Munich attacker scored six goals during the tournament and became one of the club’s most dangerous offensive weapons. To compensate for the growing injury problems, Jorge Jesus reportedly promoted several players from Al-Nassr’s under-21 squad into first-team training. Abdulmalik Al-Jaber, Awad Aman, Saad Haqawi, and Sami Al-Najai all joined preparations ahead of the final. Why Cristiano Ronaldo could start on the bench The biggest surprise, however, involves Cristiano Ronaldo himself. Despite the importance of the final, reports suggest Jorge Jesus is seriously considering rotating several star players, including the 41-year-old forward. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr reacts during prize presentation the Saudi Super Cup final Arriyadiyah adds that Abdullah Al-Hamdan has been prepared as a possible starter in Ronaldo’s place. The Saudi striker is the player most frequently used as Ronaldo’s replacement during matches. “The coa
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez spoke highly of Cristiano Ronaldo. With less than a month remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo appears ready to once again lead Portugal in pursuit of glory. Head coach Roberto Martinez recently shared his thoughts on the veteran forward. “Cristiano continues to have a great desire to win and I see no sign that his level has dropped since he came to Saudi Arabia,” Martinez said during a recent interview with the German Press Agency (DPA) after attending the Saudi Pro League clash between Al Nassr and Al Hilal. In that match, CR7 was in the starting lineup and remained on the field for 82 minutes before being replaced by Abdullah Al-Hamdan. It marked his 35th club appearance of the season across the domestic league, the King’s Cup, the AFC Champions League Two, and the Saudi Super Cup. Overall, the 41-year-old forward has recorded 28 goals and five assists. “He is playing exceptionally well and has proven his importance to the Portuguese national team. His passion continues, even after all the successes and achievements he has reached, and having that hunger is quite remarkable,” Martinez later added. Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Portugal. That level of form has not only been evident with Al Nassr, as Ronaldo has also remained a key player at the international level. This season, he has played in five of Portugal’s eight matches across World Cup qualifiers and friendlies, scoring five goals. His absences came because of suspension and a hamstring injury suffered earlier this year. Ronaldo has no special privileges with Portugal, Martinez says Despite his superstar status and having firmly established himself as the greatest player in Portugal’s history, Cristiano Ronaldo does not receive special treatment within the national team setup, according to Roberto Martinez. “Achievements alone are not enough to guarantee a place in the national team. It is also necessary to contribute to the team’s success,” the coach said during the same interview. “Although he is the captain and has achieved unprecedented success that demonstrates his exceptional talent, he has the same responsibilities as any other player on the national team.” Cristiano Ronaldo’s upcoming challenges While the 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up as the biggest event of the year, and the tournament is now less than a month away, Cristiano Ronaldo remains focused on important club objectives before then. Saturday could become a historic day for Al Nassr, as the club has a chance to secure two titles. On one hand, they will face Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, while in the Saudi Pro League they will also be monitoring Al Hilal’s result against Neom. If Karim Benzema’s side fails to defeat Neom, Al Nassr will automatically be crowned league champions. Otherwise, the title race will be decided on Tuesday.
As the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season approaches its conclusion, the Portuguese superstar suddenly finds himself watching a remarkable personal streak come to an unexpected end. Cristiano Ronaldo has spent much of his time in Saudi Arabia rewriting records, breaking scoring milestones, and dominating headlines with Al-Nassr. Yet as the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season approaches its conclusion, the Portuguese superstar suddenly finds himself watching a remarkable personal streak come to an unexpected end. For much of the campaign, Ronaldo appeared capable of adding another individual accolade to his growing collection. Instead, a dramatic late-season surge from two unexpected challengers transformed the Golden Boot race and denied the Al-Nassr forward a place in one of the league’s most exclusive historical groups. The biggest twist came through the performances of Ivan Toney and Julian Quinones. The Al-Ahli striker produced an extraordinary run of goals late in the season, eventually climbing to the top of the standings with 31 league goals. Quinones, meanwhile, emerged as one of the revelations of the season for Al-Qadsiah. The Mexican forward pushed Toney all the way after scoring 30 goals, turning what once looked like Ronaldo’s race into a two-man battle that barely involved the Portuguese star by the final weeks. History made tonight in the #RoshnSaudiLeague as for the first time ever, 2️⃣ players have scored 3️⃣0️⃣ goals in the same season. Julian Quinones 🤝 Ivan Toney pic.twitter.com/RdDeqwco3k— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) May 14, 2026 Ronaldo’s remarkable streak finally ends Despite another strong individual season with Al-Nassr, with one game to go, Ronaldo could only reach 26 league goals, leaving him behind both Toney and Quinones in the final standings. That outcome has officially ended one of the most impressive scoring streaks of his Saudi Pro League career. After winning the Golden Boot in both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, Ronaldo failed to capture the award for a third consecutive campaign. The missed opportunity carries additional significance because Ronaldo was chasing a rare piece of Saudi soccer history. Had he secured the top scorer award again, he would have joined a tiny group of players to win three straight Golden Boots in the Saudi top flight. Saudi Pro League Golden Boot winners The exclusive group Ronaldo narrowly missed Only a handful of names have achieved that feat in Saudi soccer history. Omar Al Somah remains one of the best-known examples after winning three consecutive Golden Boots between 2014 and 2017 with Al-Ahli. Before him, Al-Nassr legend Majed Abdullah also accomplished the achievement during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Ronaldo now falls just short of joining that exclusive company. The disappointment feels even bigger considering how dominant he looked in earlier seasons. Ronaldo shattered records during the 2023-24 campaign by scoring 35 league goals, setting one of the greatest attacking seasons Saudi soccer has ever seen.
With Al Nassr's winning streak snapping at 20 games, Cristiano Ronaldo fell just short of matching his career-best mark set during his time at Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo could not prevent Al Nassr‘s defeat on Sunday against Al Qadsiah, which brought the club’s remarkable winning streak to a halt with a 3-1 loss. While the Portuguese legend helped push the run to 20 consecutive victories, he ultimately fell short of the career-best streak he had set during his time at Real Madrid. Al Nassr‘s winning run had stretched all the way back to January 17, some 106 days earlier, beginning on Matchday 16 against Al Shabab. Goals from Mohammed Abu Shamat in the 24th minute, Musab Al-Juwair in the 55th and Mexican international Julian Quiñones in the 78th were enough to end the streak, with Joao Felix’s 39th-minute strike accounting for Al Nassr’s only reply, leaving the club with just three games to go in the league season. The 3-1 defeat brings to a close what stands as the longest winning streak in Al Nassr’s history. The run was made up of 16 consecutive Saudi Pro League victories and four wins in the AFC Champions League Two on the way to reaching the final. However, the longest winning streak of Ronaldo’s career remains untouched. That benchmark dates back to the 2014-15 season, when between September 2014 and January 2015 he was part of a 22-match unbeaten winning run with Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates with Gareth Bale after scoring Real’s 3rd goal against FC Basel 1893. That streak began on September 16, 2014, with a 5-1 home victory in the opening matchday of the 2014-15 UEFA Champions League against FC Basel, with Ronaldo contributing a goal and an assist. The run spanned La Liga, the Champions League, the Copa del Rey and the FIFA Club World Cup before finally coming to an end on January 4, 2015, with a 2-1 away win over Valencia in La Liga, in which Ronaldo scored Real Madrid’s only goal. Cristiano Ronaldo’s contribution across both winning streaks Despite more than a decade separating the two runs, Ronaldo has been a pivotal figure in both, consistently contributing at both ends of the pitch, though his impact has been notably different in each setting. During his career-best streak at Real Madrid, Ronaldo sat out just two games, both Copa del Rey ties against UD Cornellà in which coach Carlo Ancelotti elected to rest him. Across the remaining 20 matches, he scored 28 goals and delivered 12 assists, producing a staggering rate of 1.4 goals per game and 2.0 direct goal contributions per appearance. The run also yielded the FIFA Club World Cup, with victories over Mexico’s Cruz Azul and Argentina’s San Lorenzo. During the most recent streak with Al Nassr, Ronaldo participated in 14 of the 20 games, missing six in total. Two of those absences came in the AFC Champions League Two Round of 16 against FK Arkadag, where coach Jorge Jesus chose to rest him, while the remaining four were Saudi Pro League matches: two in early February during his voluntary boycott of the league and two more in late March while sidelined with a hamstring injury. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates after winning against Al Ahli. Across the 14 games he did feature in, Ronaldo scored 11 goals and contributed two assists, staggering figures for a player who turned 41 while the streak was still alive. His performances helped Al Nassr reach the AFC Champions League Two final and maintain their position at the top of the Saudi Pro League, with the title still firmly in their own hands.
With Portugal potentially entering a new era after the 2026 World Cup, speculation has begun to grow around a reunion that once defined an era at Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho have recently found themselves linked in the same narrative, with fresh speculation suggesting a possible reunion at international level. With Portugal potentially entering a new era after the 2026 World Cup, speculation has begun to grow around a reunion that once defined an era at Real Madrid. Earlier reports have suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo could reunite with Mourinho more than a decade after their time together at Santiago Bernabeu. The possibility centers around the Portugal national team, with current manager Roberto Martinez approaching the end of his contract after the 2026 World Cup. According to ESPN’s February report, Mourinho is seen as a leading candidate to take over the national team once that transition occurs. The scenario has added weight due to the boss’ long-standing connection with Portuguese soccer and his previously expressed desire to coach at international tournaments. The 63-year-old has usually openly spoken about his ambition to lead a national team on the biggest stage. In a previous statement, he made his intentions clear about wanting to experience international competition at the highest level. “I want to play a European Championship or a World Cup and unite a country around a team, as I have already done many times with the clubs,” he said, via Corriere Dello Sport. Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League. Mourinho’s response to Portugal speculation Despite the growing rumors, the current Benfica manager has recently addressed the possibility of taking over a national team role, offering a measured response that reflects his current priorities. While he did not shut the door completely, he made it clear that the timing is not right for such a move. “It’s not the right time yet to coach a national team,” Mourinho said when asked about the speculation. He expanded on his reasoning with a glimpse into his mindset. “I do think about it, but I also think about my life without club football… I can’t imagine my life without all of that,” he explained, emphasizing his attachment to the rhythm of club management. Jose Mourinho coached Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013. Those comments suggest that while the idea of managing Portugal remains appealing, his immediate focus stays with day-to-day coaching responsibilities. Real Madrid links add another twist Adding further complexity to the situation are reports linking Mourinho with a return to Real Madrid. The Spanish giant is searching for stability, and his name has emerged as a serious option to lead a new project. Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid speaks to Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica. Mourinho has publicly played down those rumors, stating that no direct contact has been made. Still, the interest highlights how his profile continues to command attention at the highest level of the game. For Portugal, this creates uncertainty. If club opportunities arise, Mourinho may choose to delay any move into international management, even if the role appeals to him in the long run.
Erik ten Hag's former assistant Steve McClaren spoke about the manager's relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United. Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United was filled with excitement. However, the club could not break away from the usual performances that stopped the trophies from coming. Then manager Erik ten Hag had a lot to do with the forward’s exit to Al-Nassr. Ten Hag’s assistant during his short time in Manchester was Steve McClaren. His presence was a valuable asset for the team, as he had also spent three seasons in that role under Sir Alex Ferguson when the club won the treble. The experienced manager shared his insight in an interview with The Athletic. McClaren said: “Erik tried to impose his style and that’s why he had that fight with Ronaldo all the way through. I said to Erik, very early, ‘It’s you or him’. Ronaldo was generally OK. But he didn’t want to do the job that Erik wanted him to do. Or didn’t feel he could do it.” The former assistant shared more about the plan: “The instructions out of possession were, ‘Get into the middle, as soon as you’re back, you’re the first press’. I used to say to Ronnie, ‘If you want to play, that’s what you’ve got to do’. He’d argue, ‘Ah, nobody wants to press’. I’d say, ‘Well, they’re all young lads, they can press’.” McClaren was also England’s manager from 2006-2007 (Stu Forster/Getty Images) McClaren differentiates Ferguson from ten Hag McClaren was clear about what ten Hag’s message was to Ronaldo: “It’s right that 11 players attack, 11 players defend. Not 11 players attack, 10 players defend. So I said, ‘You have to run, it’s simple, Ronnie. If you don’t, you don’t play’. You’ve probably got half the squad going, ‘We think Ronnie’s right’, and half going, ‘We think Erik is right’.” The leadership stature that Ferguson imposed, and the presence that allowed him to manage talents like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and more, was not at the same level as ten Hag’s, with a clear contrast. McClaren said: “With Fergie, he was right or you were out. If you weren’t with him and he knew it, you were gone. And that’s the authority, the power that he had developed over years and years.” Time wasn’t enough for ten Hag McClaren’s conclusion about whether ten Hag could have turned things around was that the manager was fired before getting much time: “The gaffer, Sir Alex, got time to do it. Erik didn’t get the same time. In a way, I could believe it. But in some respects, I couldn’t, because he won the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup.”
Antony recalled an embarrassing moment he experienced while being Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammate at Manchester United. Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued status as a global soccer star at 41 is no coincidence. It is largely due to his discipline and work ethic. Former Manchester United teammate Antony reflected on that during a recent interview. “Once in the sauna he joked with me. He showed me his physique and asked if he looked 23 years old. I was even embarrassed because you see the level of care he takes even at almost 40,” Antony recalled in an interview with Globoesporte. “He’s a role model for everyone.” Antony and Ronaldo were briefly teammates during the Portuguese star’s second stint in England in the 2022-23 season. The young winger had just arrived from Ajax that summer, while CR7 was in the final months of his time at the club before his turbulent exit, which ultimately led to his move to Al Nassr. At that time, Ronaldo was nearing 38 years old and, just like now, remained in peak physical condition thanks to his strict training, diet, and recovery routines—something consistently praised by his former teammates. Antony, then just 22, was particularly impressed by the experience. Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates with Antony of Manchester United. Antony praises Cristiano Ronaldo It was not only Cristiano Ronaldo’s work ethic that left a lasting impression on Antony, but also the personal relationship they developed during their time together at Manchester United. “Cristiano Ronaldo is a great person, I learned a lot from him,” the Brazilian said in the same interview. “He even joked with me once, saying that people think he’s stubborn, but in everyday life he’s very playful,” Antony added. “He talked about life, books, various subjects outside of football. That was good because it helped me disconnect. He would say, ‘Today we’re not going to talk about football.’ And that made us learn other important things.” Antony does not pick Cristiano Ronaldo as his best-ever teammate Despite his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, when asked about the best player he has played with, Antony chose another star. “I have played with Neymar, with Cristiano too. There are so many, but for me, Neymar. I had the privilege of playing with him. Neymar for me is a star,” Antony said in an interview shared by ESPN. He also did not name Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest striker of all time. In that category, Antony pointed to two Brazilian legends. “I like a lot Romario and Ronaldo (Nazario),” said the Real Betis winger.
With pressure mounting on chasing rivals, attention has shifted toward exactly how many wins are needed and when the championship could be sealed. Cristiano Ronaldo has once again become the defining figure in Al-Nassr’s push for long-awaited Saudi Pro League glory, while the club edges closer to a decisive moment in the title race. With pressure mounting on chasing rivals, attention has shifted toward exactly how many wins are needed and when the championship could be sealed. The situation is now finely balanced, with momentum firmly on Al-Nassr’s side but the finish line still requiring precision and composure. Al-Nassr delivered one of its most important results of the season with a 2-0 victory over Al-Ahli, a match that stretched its winning streak to 20 consecutive games across all competitions. For long spells, the game was tight and tense, with both sides struggling to break through. The breakthrough eventually arrived through Ronaldo, who once again delivered when it mattered most. In the 75th minute, he rose to meet a Joao Felix corner and guided a header into the top corner, leaving Edouard Mendy with no chance. The strike sparked celebrations across Al Awwal Park, with teammates rushing to the corner flag as belief in the title grew stronger with each passing minute. That victory pushed the Knight of Najd further ahead at the top of the table, strengthening a position built on consistency and momentum. The club has now established a clear lead over Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli, with only a small number of matches left to play. 🚨🇸🇦 𝗔 𝗧𝗔𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔!👑 MAIS LÍDER DO QUE NUNCA! O Al Nassr bateu o Al Ahli no clássico e está a 4 rodadas do título saudita!⚔️ O principal adversário agora é o Al Hilal! 8 pontos atrás, um jogo a menos e um confronto direto para acontecer.QUEM SERÁ… pic.twitter.com/x2cnYnU3E3— Central do Arabão (@centraldoarabao) April 29, 2026 This run has been built on both attacking efficiency and defensive control. Al-Nassr’s ability to win tight matches has turned them into the clear favorites at the decisive stage of the season. However, the title is still not mathematically secure, meaning every remaining fixture carries weight. Breaking down what Al-Nassr needs to win the title The key question now is how many wins are required to officially secure the championship. With Al-Nassr leading the standings, the simplest scenario is straightforward: two victories in the remaining four fixtures will be enough to confirm the title, depending on other results. A decisive clash against Al-Hilal still hangs over the run-in, one that could either confirm dominance or briefly reopen the race. Yet the margin built through consistency has given the club breathing room that once seemed unlikely. Thus, if Al-Nassr maintains its current form, it could potentially clinch the league on May 7, against Al-Shabab, one game before actually facing Al-Hilal. Al-Nassr’s next games However, the exact timing depends on whether Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli drop points in their remaining games. In practical terms, the title is now in Al-Nassr’s hands. One or two more slip-ups from rivals would significantly accelerate the celebrations. What comes next for Al-Nassr The remaining fixtures will define the season. Each match now carries the weight of a potential title-clinching moment, with the squad aware that consistency is the final hurdle. Al-Nassr must avoid any slip-ups as the pressure increases. Rival results will also play a role, but the club’s advantage means control is largely in their own hands. The final stretch will test focus, discipline, and endurance more than anything else.
After Al Nassr secured a 2-0 on Wednesday in the SPL clash, Cristiano Ronaldo fired back to Ivan Toney and Al Ahli players over their recent social media posts. Cristiano Ronaldo continued his stunning run of form on Wednesday, helping Al Nassr claim a 2-0 victory over Al Ahli in what had been a heavily charged buildup. After the final whistle, the Portuguese star used the occasion to fire back at Ivan Toney and his Al Ahli teammates over their recent social media activity. The controversy had begun in early April when several Al Ahli figures, including head coach Matthias Jaissle, Brazilian winger Galeno and Ivan Toney, publicly vented their frustration over the refereeing decisions in a 1-1 draw against Al Fayha. The result had dealt a significant blow to their title hopes, with the club making pointed claims about unawarded penalties and what they perceived as a bias toward Al Nassr. Wednesday night brought the two sides face to face for the first time since the fallout. Ronaldo opened the scoring and Kingsley Coman sealed the 2-0 win, taking Al Nassr a major stride closer to the SPL title, and the Portuguese captain wasted no time in addressing the recent off-field noise. Speaking to Vini Pereira on Canal GOAT, Ronaldo weighed in on the social media posts that had dominated the headlines in recent weeks. “I think this is not good for the league. Everyone is complaining. Everyone is doing more than they should be doing. This is football, it’s not a war. We know everyone has to fight and wants to win, but everything is not allowed,” he said. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates after winning against Al Ahli Ronaldo then made a pointed promise to speak more publicly on the matter when the time is right. “I am going to speak out at the end of the season because I see several bad things. Many players make posts on Instagram and Facebook complaining about the referees, the league, the project. I think that is not good, and it is not the goal of the league,” he added. The Portuguese legend closed with a broader appeal to professionalism, framing it as a matter of the league’s long-term credibility on the global stage. “We should set an example, not only here but also for Europe, if we want to compete with them and be one of the best leagues in the world. I think we should stop this, analyze it, and talk with the Saudi League because, for me, this is no longer football,” he concluded. Al Nassr vs. Al Ahli: The feud continues in the aftermath The match was already dripping with tension before a ball had been kicked. Al Ahli arrived as reigning AFC Champions League Elite winners, and defender Mehdi Demiral had stoked the fire by posting a pointed message on social media: “You were right. We focus on AFC.” The remark was a direct reference to the earlier claims by Al Ahli players that a referee had allegedly told them to “focus on the AFC,” and it did little to cool the temperature before kickoff. In the 98th minute, Demiral found himself on the receiving end of a forceful challenge from Coman, who was booked with a yellow card. The decision only deepened the defender’s anger. “They are helping Al Nassr so that they can win the league. This is a disgrace. Look at my legs. What happened is a disgrace. Al Ahli doesn’t need help to achieve anything. Thank God I’m with Al Ahli,” he said in the mixed zone. ديميرال غاضب جداً جداً جداً انهم يساعدون النصر في حتى يحقق البطولة ، هذا عار ، انظروا الى ساقي ، ماحدث عار ، الاهلي لايحتاج للمساعدة حتى يحقق شيء الحمدلله انني مع الاهلي 🤯 pic.twitter.com/5sqXTY6cFL— خالد بن فصلا | KF (@wlv_s1) April 29, 2026 The 2-0 victory at Al Awwal Park has brought Al Nassr to the brink of the SPL title, with the club now sitting first on 79 points from 30 games, eight clear of Al Hilal. With five games remaining, the defeat has all but ended Al Ahli’s title aspirations, leaving them third with 66 points from 29 games and 13 points adrift of the leaders.
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Cristiano Ronaldo has been nominated for the 2025-26 SPL Player of the Season award, but is facing a fierce competition from Ivan Toney and his own teammate Joao Felix. Cristiano Ronaldo has been nominated for the Player of the Season award in the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League after another standout campaign at Al Nassr. However, the Portuguese legend will face stiff competition from Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney and his own teammate Joao Felix in the race for the honor. On Sunday, the Saudi Pro League published its 2025-26 Season Awards nominees on its official website, with Ronaldo once again among those in the running for the top individual prize of the campaign. Alongside the Player of the Season, the other categories up for grabs include Saudi Player of the Season, Manager of the Season and Best Young Talent of the Season. Voting opened on Sunday, with the winners set to be revealed once the league season concludes. As with the previous edition, the voting breakdown has already been established. The head coaches and captains of all 18 SPL clubs will each account for 40 percent of the overall vote, the Kingdom’s leading sports journalists will contribute 15 percent, and fans of the league will make up the remaining 5 percent. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Roshn Saudi League (@spl_en) Ronaldo will have the chance to potentially clinch the SPL title when Al Nassr host Damac FC on Thursday, May 21, in what could be the day he ends the club’s long trophy drought. The following day, Friday, May 22, following the conclusion of the final matchweek, the award winners will be officially announced. Cristiano Ronaldo and the competition for SPL Player of the Season Since his arrival in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo has consistently been one of the most impactful players in the league, and this season has been no different, with his performances at the heart of Al Nassr’s push for the title. On an individual level, the 41-year-old has posted 26 goals and three assists across 29 games, placing him among the leaders in direct goal contributions. The competition, however, is fierce. Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney currently leads the SPL scoring charts with 32 goals and six assists in 31 games, while Mexican international Julian Quiñones has registered 30 goals and four assists in 30 appearances for Al Qadsiah. Joao Felix, Ronaldo’s Al Nassr teammate, rounds out the standout candidates with 20 goals and 13 assists across 32 games, a combination of goalscoring and creativity that makes him a compelling contender. One potential advantage for the Al Nassr duo is the trend established by recent award winners. Karim Benzema claimed the Player of the Season in 2024-25 and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic in 2023-24, with both Al Ittihad and Al Hilal producing those winners respectively. The pattern suggests that team success carries significant weight with voters, which could tip the balance in favor of players from a title-winning side. SPL Awards: categories and nominees Player of the Season Ivan Toney (Al Ahli)Julian Quiñones (Al Qadsiah)Ruben Neves (Al Hilal)Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)Joao Felix (Al Nassr) Best Young Talent of the Season Hammam Al Hammami (Al Shabab)Abdulaziz Al Elewa (Al Kholood)Abdulaziz Al Suwailem (Al Fateh)Sabri Dahal (Al Fayha)Sultan Harun (Al Riyadh) Manager of the Season Jorge Jesus (Al Nassr)Matthias Jaissle (Al Ahli)Brendan Rodgers (Al Qadsiah)Simone Inzaghi (Al Hilal)Saad Al Shehri (Al Ettifaq) Saudi Player of the Season Salem Al Dawsari (Al Hilal)Khalid Al Ghannam (Al Ettifaq)Musab Al Juwayr (Al Qadsiah)Abdulelah Al Amri (Al Nassr)Hattan Bahebri (Al Kholood)
Cristiano Ronaldo could soon experience another major change at Al-Nassr, with growing reports suggesting Jorge Jesus is already preparing for life away from the Riyadh giant once the season comes to an end. Cristiano Ronaldo could soon experience another major change at Al-Nassr, with growing reports suggesting Jorge Jesus is already preparing for life away from the Riyadh giant once the season comes to an end. The Portuguese manager has enjoyed an impressive campaign at the club, yet recent developments indicate his long-term future may already be decided despite the team still competing for major silverware. At the same time, the Portuguese duo remains fully focused on delivering success in both domestic and continental competition. With the Saudi Pro League title race still alive and an AFC Champions League Two final approaching, the timing of the speculation surrounding Jorge Jesus has created even more intrigue around the club’s immediate future. According to reports from ESPN Brasil journalist Bruno Andrade, Jorge Jesus does not intend to renew his contract with Al-Nassr beyond the current campaign. Although the veteran coach is said to be happy with life in Saudi Arabia, his ambitions reportedly stretch far beyond club soccer. “Jorge Jesus does not intend to renew his contract with Al-Nassr for the next season,” the report stated, while also revealing that the Portuguese tactician is already thinking about another dream role in soccer management. Jorge Jesus, Head Coach of Al Nassr reacts The update comes as a major surprise considering the strong season Al-Nassr has produced under Jesus. The club remains in contention for a domestic and continental double, while Ronaldo himself has enjoyed one of the most productive campaigns of his career despite already being 41 years old. Jesus’ dream destination comes to light The report has also revealed the deeper motivation that lies in Jesus’ future. Apparently, the 71-year-old’s preferred destination is the Portugal national team job after the 2026 World Cup, with current coach Roberto Martinez expected to leave after the tournament. That option instantly alters the context of his current situation in Al-Nassr. Rather than negotiating a new long-term contract in the Middle East, Jesus reportedly wants to position himself as a leading candidate to guide Portugal into the 2030 World Cup cycle, especially with the tournament set to be hosted partly by Portugal. “The coach has the ambition to take over the command of the Portugal national team after the World Cup,” ESPN Brasil added. Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal hugs head coach Roberto Martinez For Portuguese soccer, the possibility carries enormous significance. Jesus has built one of the most decorated managerial careers in Portuguese club history, and managing the national team would represent the final major challenge of his coaching journey. And with Jose Mourinho nearing a return to Real Madrid, the path ahead of him is all but paved. Defining summer approaching for Al-Nassr The next few weeks could reshape the future of the club entirely. Ronaldo may finally secure the league title he has chased for years, while Jorge Jesus could potentially leave after delivering one of the most successful seasons in recent Al-Nassr history. At the same time, the possibility of him becoming Portugal manager after the 2026 World Cup adds another fascinating layer to the story. For now, though, the veteran boss appears determined to finish the season strongly before making any official move.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus are heading into one of the biggest nights of Al-Nassr’s recent history under unusual circumstances, with Marcelo Brozovic and Kingsley Coman both struggling with injuries ahead of the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka. Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus are heading into one of the biggest nights of Al-Nassr’s recent history under unusual circumstances, with Marcelo Brozovic and Kingsley Coman both struggling with injuries ahead of the AFC Champions League Two final against Gamba Osaka. Yet despite the magnitude of the occasion and the growing injury list, reports from Saudi Arabia suggest the Portuguese superstar could surprisingly begin the match on the bench. The Riyadh side stands on the edge of a potentially historic weekend. Al-Nassr could secure continental glory in front of its own supporters at Al-Awwal Park, while events elsewhere in the Saudi Pro League could also hand the club another major celebration before it even kicks off against the Japanese side. The AFC Champions League Two final arrives at a critical moment for Al-Nassr. Jorge Jesus’ side is still recovering emotionally from a dramatic 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal, a result that delayed what could have been an immediate domestic title celebration. A costly mistake from goalkeeper Bento prevented the club from wrapping up the league crown in midweek. Even so, the Knight of Najd remains in a commanding position domestically and still controls its destiny heading into the final round against Damac. Before that decisive league fixture, however, attention shifts fully toward Asia. The clash against Gamba Osaka represents a huge opportunity for Cristiano Ronaldo to finally lift his first major trophy with Al-Nassr after several near misses in both domestic and continental competitions. Ruben Neves looks on following the Saudi Pro League match between Al Nassr and Al Hilal. The final also carries enormous symbolic weight for Ronaldo personally. After conquering Europe with five UEFA Champions League titles during his time at Real Madrid, the Portuguese forward now has the chance to add another continental crown on a different stage. Injury concerns create difficult situation for Jorge Jesus Preparations for the final have been far from ideal. According to reports from Arriyadiyah, several important players missed training and instead underwent treatment sessions at the club’s medical facility. “The injured group included Marcelo Brozovic, Angelo, Abdullah Al Khaibari, Abdulelah Al Amri, and Kingsley Coman.” The report added that Brozovic is currently considered the least likely player to recover in time for the final against Gamba Osaka. That development creates a major headache for Jorge Jesus, especially given the Croatian midfielder’s importance in controlling matches and dictating tempo. Marcelo Brozovic of Al Nassr Coman’s absence is equally concerning because the French winger has been one of Al-Nassr’s standout performers throughout the AFC Champions League Two campaign. The former Bayern Munich attacker scored six goals during the tournament and became one of the club’s most dangerous offensive weapons. To compensate for the growing injury problems, Jorge Jesus reportedly promoted several players from Al-Nassr’s under-21 squad into first-team training. Abdulmalik Al-Jaber, Awad Aman, Saad Haqawi, and Sami Al-Najai all joined preparations ahead of the final. Why Cristiano Ronaldo could start on the bench The biggest surprise, however, involves Cristiano Ronaldo himself. Despite the importance of the final, reports suggest Jorge Jesus is seriously considering rotating several star players, including the 41-year-old forward. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr reacts during prize presentation the Saudi Super Cup final Arriyadiyah adds that Abdullah Al-Hamdan has been prepared as a possible starter in Ronaldo’s place. The Saudi striker is the player most frequently used as Ronaldo’s replacement during matches. “The coa
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez spoke highly of Cristiano Ronaldo. With less than a month remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo appears ready to once again lead Portugal in pursuit of glory. Head coach Roberto Martinez recently shared his thoughts on the veteran forward. “Cristiano continues to have a great desire to win and I see no sign that his level has dropped since he came to Saudi Arabia,” Martinez said during a recent interview with the German Press Agency (DPA) after attending the Saudi Pro League clash between Al Nassr and Al Hilal. In that match, CR7 was in the starting lineup and remained on the field for 82 minutes before being replaced by Abdullah Al-Hamdan. It marked his 35th club appearance of the season across the domestic league, the King’s Cup, the AFC Champions League Two, and the Saudi Super Cup. Overall, the 41-year-old forward has recorded 28 goals and five assists. “He is playing exceptionally well and has proven his importance to the Portuguese national team. His passion continues, even after all the successes and achievements he has reached, and having that hunger is quite remarkable,” Martinez later added. Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Portugal. That level of form has not only been evident with Al Nassr, as Ronaldo has also remained a key player at the international level. This season, he has played in five of Portugal’s eight matches across World Cup qualifiers and friendlies, scoring five goals. His absences came because of suspension and a hamstring injury suffered earlier this year. Ronaldo has no special privileges with Portugal, Martinez says Despite his superstar status and having firmly established himself as the greatest player in Portugal’s history, Cristiano Ronaldo does not receive special treatment within the national team setup, according to Roberto Martinez. “Achievements alone are not enough to guarantee a place in the national team. It is also necessary to contribute to the team’s success,” the coach said during the same interview. “Although he is the captain and has achieved unprecedented success that demonstrates his exceptional talent, he has the same responsibilities as any other player on the national team.” Cristiano Ronaldo’s upcoming challenges While the 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up as the biggest event of the year, and the tournament is now less than a month away, Cristiano Ronaldo remains focused on important club objectives before then. Saturday could become a historic day for Al Nassr, as the club has a chance to secure two titles. On one hand, they will face Gamba Osaka in the AFC Champions League Two final, while in the Saudi Pro League they will also be monitoring Al Hilal’s result against Neom. If Karim Benzema’s side fails to defeat Neom, Al Nassr will automatically be crowned league champions. Otherwise, the title race will be decided on Tuesday.
As the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season approaches its conclusion, the Portuguese superstar suddenly finds himself watching a remarkable personal streak come to an unexpected end. Cristiano Ronaldo has spent much of his time in Saudi Arabia rewriting records, breaking scoring milestones, and dominating headlines with Al-Nassr. Yet as the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League season approaches its conclusion, the Portuguese superstar suddenly finds himself watching a remarkable personal streak come to an unexpected end. For much of the campaign, Ronaldo appeared capable of adding another individual accolade to his growing collection. Instead, a dramatic late-season surge from two unexpected challengers transformed the Golden Boot race and denied the Al-Nassr forward a place in one of the league’s most exclusive historical groups. The biggest twist came through the performances of Ivan Toney and Julian Quinones. The Al-Ahli striker produced an extraordinary run of goals late in the season, eventually climbing to the top of the standings with 31 league goals. Quinones, meanwhile, emerged as one of the revelations of the season for Al-Qadsiah. The Mexican forward pushed Toney all the way after scoring 30 goals, turning what once looked like Ronaldo’s race into a two-man battle that barely involved the Portuguese star by the final weeks. History made tonight in the #RoshnSaudiLeague as for the first time ever, 2️⃣ players have scored 3️⃣0️⃣ goals in the same season. Julian Quinones 🤝 Ivan Toney pic.twitter.com/RdDeqwco3k— Roshn Saudi League (@SPL_EN) May 14, 2026 Ronaldo’s remarkable streak finally ends Despite another strong individual season with Al-Nassr, with one game to go, Ronaldo could only reach 26 league goals, leaving him behind both Toney and Quinones in the final standings. That outcome has officially ended one of the most impressive scoring streaks of his Saudi Pro League career. After winning the Golden Boot in both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, Ronaldo failed to capture the award for a third consecutive campaign. The missed opportunity carries additional significance because Ronaldo was chasing a rare piece of Saudi soccer history. Had he secured the top scorer award again, he would have joined a tiny group of players to win three straight Golden Boots in the Saudi top flight. Saudi Pro League Golden Boot winners The exclusive group Ronaldo narrowly missed Only a handful of names have achieved that feat in Saudi soccer history. Omar Al Somah remains one of the best-known examples after winning three consecutive Golden Boots between 2014 and 2017 with Al-Ahli. Before him, Al-Nassr legend Majed Abdullah also accomplished the achievement during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Ronaldo now falls just short of joining that exclusive company. The disappointment feels even bigger considering how dominant he looked in earlier seasons. Ronaldo shattered records during the 2023-24 campaign by scoring 35 league goals, setting one of the greatest attacking seasons Saudi soccer has ever seen.
With Al Nassr's winning streak snapping at 20 games, Cristiano Ronaldo fell just short of matching his career-best mark set during his time at Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo could not prevent Al Nassr‘s defeat on Sunday against Al Qadsiah, which brought the club’s remarkable winning streak to a halt with a 3-1 loss. While the Portuguese legend helped push the run to 20 consecutive victories, he ultimately fell short of the career-best streak he had set during his time at Real Madrid. Al Nassr‘s winning run had stretched all the way back to January 17, some 106 days earlier, beginning on Matchday 16 against Al Shabab. Goals from Mohammed Abu Shamat in the 24th minute, Musab Al-Juwair in the 55th and Mexican international Julian Quiñones in the 78th were enough to end the streak, with Joao Felix’s 39th-minute strike accounting for Al Nassr’s only reply, leaving the club with just three games to go in the league season. The 3-1 defeat brings to a close what stands as the longest winning streak in Al Nassr’s history. The run was made up of 16 consecutive Saudi Pro League victories and four wins in the AFC Champions League Two on the way to reaching the final. However, the longest winning streak of Ronaldo’s career remains untouched. That benchmark dates back to the 2014-15 season, when between September 2014 and January 2015 he was part of a 22-match unbeaten winning run with Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates with Gareth Bale after scoring Real’s 3rd goal against FC Basel 1893. That streak began on September 16, 2014, with a 5-1 home victory in the opening matchday of the 2014-15 UEFA Champions League against FC Basel, with Ronaldo contributing a goal and an assist. The run spanned La Liga, the Champions League, the Copa del Rey and the FIFA Club World Cup before finally coming to an end on January 4, 2015, with a 2-1 away win over Valencia in La Liga, in which Ronaldo scored Real Madrid’s only goal. Cristiano Ronaldo’s contribution across both winning streaks Despite more than a decade separating the two runs, Ronaldo has been a pivotal figure in both, consistently contributing at both ends of the pitch, though his impact has been notably different in each setting. During his career-best streak at Real Madrid, Ronaldo sat out just two games, both Copa del Rey ties against UD Cornellà in which coach Carlo Ancelotti elected to rest him. Across the remaining 20 matches, he scored 28 goals and delivered 12 assists, producing a staggering rate of 1.4 goals per game and 2.0 direct goal contributions per appearance. The run also yielded the FIFA Club World Cup, with victories over Mexico’s Cruz Azul and Argentina’s San Lorenzo. During the most recent streak with Al Nassr, Ronaldo participated in 14 of the 20 games, missing six in total. Two of those absences came in the AFC Champions League Two Round of 16 against FK Arkadag, where coach Jorge Jesus chose to rest him, while the remaining four were Saudi Pro League matches: two in early February during his voluntary boycott of the league and two more in late March while sidelined with a hamstring injury. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates after winning against Al Ahli. Across the 14 games he did feature in, Ronaldo scored 11 goals and contributed two assists, staggering figures for a player who turned 41 while the streak was still alive. His performances helped Al Nassr reach the AFC Champions League Two final and maintain their position at the top of the Saudi Pro League, with the title still firmly in their own hands.
With Portugal potentially entering a new era after the 2026 World Cup, speculation has begun to grow around a reunion that once defined an era at Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho have recently found themselves linked in the same narrative, with fresh speculation suggesting a possible reunion at international level. With Portugal potentially entering a new era after the 2026 World Cup, speculation has begun to grow around a reunion that once defined an era at Real Madrid. Earlier reports have suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo could reunite with Mourinho more than a decade after their time together at Santiago Bernabeu. The possibility centers around the Portugal national team, with current manager Roberto Martinez approaching the end of his contract after the 2026 World Cup. According to ESPN’s February report, Mourinho is seen as a leading candidate to take over the national team once that transition occurs. The scenario has added weight due to the boss’ long-standing connection with Portuguese soccer and his previously expressed desire to coach at international tournaments. The 63-year-old has usually openly spoken about his ambition to lead a national team on the biggest stage. In a previous statement, he made his intentions clear about wanting to experience international competition at the highest level. “I want to play a European Championship or a World Cup and unite a country around a team, as I have already done many times with the clubs,” he said, via Corriere Dello Sport. Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League. Mourinho’s response to Portugal speculation Despite the growing rumors, the current Benfica manager has recently addressed the possibility of taking over a national team role, offering a measured response that reflects his current priorities. While he did not shut the door completely, he made it clear that the timing is not right for such a move. “It’s not the right time yet to coach a national team,” Mourinho said when asked about the speculation. He expanded on his reasoning with a glimpse into his mindset. “I do think about it, but I also think about my life without club football… I can’t imagine my life without all of that,” he explained, emphasizing his attachment to the rhythm of club management. Jose Mourinho coached Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013. Those comments suggest that while the idea of managing Portugal remains appealing, his immediate focus stays with day-to-day coaching responsibilities. Real Madrid links add another twist Adding further complexity to the situation are reports linking Mourinho with a return to Real Madrid. The Spanish giant is searching for stability, and his name has emerged as a serious option to lead a new project. Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid speaks to Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica. Mourinho has publicly played down those rumors, stating that no direct contact has been made. Still, the interest highlights how his profile continues to command attention at the highest level of the game. For Portugal, this creates uncertainty. If club opportunities arise, Mourinho may choose to delay any move into international management, even if the role appeals to him in the long run.
Erik ten Hag's former assistant Steve McClaren spoke about the manager's relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United. Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United was filled with excitement. However, the club could not break away from the usual performances that stopped the trophies from coming. Then manager Erik ten Hag had a lot to do with the forward’s exit to Al-Nassr. Ten Hag’s assistant during his short time in Manchester was Steve McClaren. His presence was a valuable asset for the team, as he had also spent three seasons in that role under Sir Alex Ferguson when the club won the treble. The experienced manager shared his insight in an interview with The Athletic. McClaren said: “Erik tried to impose his style and that’s why he had that fight with Ronaldo all the way through. I said to Erik, very early, ‘It’s you or him’. Ronaldo was generally OK. But he didn’t want to do the job that Erik wanted him to do. Or didn’t feel he could do it.” The former assistant shared more about the plan: “The instructions out of possession were, ‘Get into the middle, as soon as you’re back, you’re the first press’. I used to say to Ronnie, ‘If you want to play, that’s what you’ve got to do’. He’d argue, ‘Ah, nobody wants to press’. I’d say, ‘Well, they’re all young lads, they can press’.” McClaren was also England’s manager from 2006-2007 (Stu Forster/Getty Images) McClaren differentiates Ferguson from ten Hag McClaren was clear about what ten Hag’s message was to Ronaldo: “It’s right that 11 players attack, 11 players defend. Not 11 players attack, 10 players defend. So I said, ‘You have to run, it’s simple, Ronnie. If you don’t, you don’t play’. You’ve probably got half the squad going, ‘We think Ronnie’s right’, and half going, ‘We think Erik is right’.” The leadership stature that Ferguson imposed, and the presence that allowed him to manage talents like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, Paul Scholes and more, was not at the same level as ten Hag’s, with a clear contrast. McClaren said: “With Fergie, he was right or you were out. If you weren’t with him and he knew it, you were gone. And that’s the authority, the power that he had developed over years and years.” Time wasn’t enough for ten Hag McClaren’s conclusion about whether ten Hag could have turned things around was that the manager was fired before getting much time: “The gaffer, Sir Alex, got time to do it. Erik didn’t get the same time. In a way, I could believe it. But in some respects, I couldn’t, because he won the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup.”
Antony recalled an embarrassing moment he experienced while being Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammate at Manchester United. Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued status as a global soccer star at 41 is no coincidence. It is largely due to his discipline and work ethic. Former Manchester United teammate Antony reflected on that during a recent interview. “Once in the sauna he joked with me. He showed me his physique and asked if he looked 23 years old. I was even embarrassed because you see the level of care he takes even at almost 40,” Antony recalled in an interview with Globoesporte. “He’s a role model for everyone.” Antony and Ronaldo were briefly teammates during the Portuguese star’s second stint in England in the 2022-23 season. The young winger had just arrived from Ajax that summer, while CR7 was in the final months of his time at the club before his turbulent exit, which ultimately led to his move to Al Nassr. At that time, Ronaldo was nearing 38 years old and, just like now, remained in peak physical condition thanks to his strict training, diet, and recovery routines—something consistently praised by his former teammates. Antony, then just 22, was particularly impressed by the experience. Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates with Antony of Manchester United. Antony praises Cristiano Ronaldo It was not only Cristiano Ronaldo’s work ethic that left a lasting impression on Antony, but also the personal relationship they developed during their time together at Manchester United. “Cristiano Ronaldo is a great person, I learned a lot from him,” the Brazilian said in the same interview. “He even joked with me once, saying that people think he’s stubborn, but in everyday life he’s very playful,” Antony added. “He talked about life, books, various subjects outside of football. That was good because it helped me disconnect. He would say, ‘Today we’re not going to talk about football.’ And that made us learn other important things.” Antony does not pick Cristiano Ronaldo as his best-ever teammate Despite his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, when asked about the best player he has played with, Antony chose another star. “I have played with Neymar, with Cristiano too. There are so many, but for me, Neymar. I had the privilege of playing with him. Neymar for me is a star,” Antony said in an interview shared by ESPN. He also did not name Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest striker of all time. In that category, Antony pointed to two Brazilian legends. “I like a lot Romario and Ronaldo (Nazario),” said the Real Betis winger.
With pressure mounting on chasing rivals, attention has shifted toward exactly how many wins are needed and when the championship could be sealed. Cristiano Ronaldo has once again become the defining figure in Al-Nassr’s push for long-awaited Saudi Pro League glory, while the club edges closer to a decisive moment in the title race. With pressure mounting on chasing rivals, attention has shifted toward exactly how many wins are needed and when the championship could be sealed. The situation is now finely balanced, with momentum firmly on Al-Nassr’s side but the finish line still requiring precision and composure. Al-Nassr delivered one of its most important results of the season with a 2-0 victory over Al-Ahli, a match that stretched its winning streak to 20 consecutive games across all competitions. For long spells, the game was tight and tense, with both sides struggling to break through. The breakthrough eventually arrived through Ronaldo, who once again delivered when it mattered most. In the 75th minute, he rose to meet a Joao Felix corner and guided a header into the top corner, leaving Edouard Mendy with no chance. The strike sparked celebrations across Al Awwal Park, with teammates rushing to the corner flag as belief in the title grew stronger with each passing minute. That victory pushed the Knight of Najd further ahead at the top of the table, strengthening a position built on consistency and momentum. The club has now established a clear lead over Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli, with only a small number of matches left to play. 🚨🇸🇦 𝗔 𝗧𝗔𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔𝗔!👑 MAIS LÍDER DO QUE NUNCA! O Al Nassr bateu o Al Ahli no clássico e está a 4 rodadas do título saudita!⚔️ O principal adversário agora é o Al Hilal! 8 pontos atrás, um jogo a menos e um confronto direto para acontecer.QUEM SERÁ… pic.twitter.com/x2cnYnU3E3— Central do Arabão (@centraldoarabao) April 29, 2026 This run has been built on both attacking efficiency and defensive control. Al-Nassr’s ability to win tight matches has turned them into the clear favorites at the decisive stage of the season. However, the title is still not mathematically secure, meaning every remaining fixture carries weight. Breaking down what Al-Nassr needs to win the title The key question now is how many wins are required to officially secure the championship. With Al-Nassr leading the standings, the simplest scenario is straightforward: two victories in the remaining four fixtures will be enough to confirm the title, depending on other results. A decisive clash against Al-Hilal still hangs over the run-in, one that could either confirm dominance or briefly reopen the race. Yet the margin built through consistency has given the club breathing room that once seemed unlikely. Thus, if Al-Nassr maintains its current form, it could potentially clinch the league on May 7, against Al-Shabab, one game before actually facing Al-Hilal. Al-Nassr’s next games However, the exact timing depends on whether Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli drop points in their remaining games. In practical terms, the title is now in Al-Nassr’s hands. One or two more slip-ups from rivals would significantly accelerate the celebrations. What comes next for Al-Nassr The remaining fixtures will define the season. Each match now carries the weight of a potential title-clinching moment, with the squad aware that consistency is the final hurdle. Al-Nassr must avoid any slip-ups as the pressure increases. Rival results will also play a role, but the club’s advantage means control is largely in their own hands. The final stretch will test focus, discipline, and endurance more than anything else.
After Al Nassr secured a 2-0 on Wednesday in the SPL clash, Cristiano Ronaldo fired back to Ivan Toney and Al Ahli players over their recent social media posts. Cristiano Ronaldo continued his stunning run of form on Wednesday, helping Al Nassr claim a 2-0 victory over Al Ahli in what had been a heavily charged buildup. After the final whistle, the Portuguese star used the occasion to fire back at Ivan Toney and his Al Ahli teammates over their recent social media activity. The controversy had begun in early April when several Al Ahli figures, including head coach Matthias Jaissle, Brazilian winger Galeno and Ivan Toney, publicly vented their frustration over the refereeing decisions in a 1-1 draw against Al Fayha. The result had dealt a significant blow to their title hopes, with the club making pointed claims about unawarded penalties and what they perceived as a bias toward Al Nassr. Wednesday night brought the two sides face to face for the first time since the fallout. Ronaldo opened the scoring and Kingsley Coman sealed the 2-0 win, taking Al Nassr a major stride closer to the SPL title, and the Portuguese captain wasted no time in addressing the recent off-field noise. Speaking to Vini Pereira on Canal GOAT, Ronaldo weighed in on the social media posts that had dominated the headlines in recent weeks. “I think this is not good for the league. Everyone is complaining. Everyone is doing more than they should be doing. This is football, it’s not a war. We know everyone has to fight and wants to win, but everything is not allowed,” he said. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates after winning against Al Ahli Ronaldo then made a pointed promise to speak more publicly on the matter when the time is right. “I am going to speak out at the end of the season because I see several bad things. Many players make posts on Instagram and Facebook complaining about the referees, the league, the project. I think that is not good, and it is not the goal of the league,” he added. The Portuguese legend closed with a broader appeal to professionalism, framing it as a matter of the league’s long-term credibility on the global stage. “We should set an example, not only here but also for Europe, if we want to compete with them and be one of the best leagues in the world. I think we should stop this, analyze it, and talk with the Saudi League because, for me, this is no longer football,” he concluded. Al Nassr vs. Al Ahli: The feud continues in the aftermath The match was already dripping with tension before a ball had been kicked. Al Ahli arrived as reigning AFC Champions League Elite winners, and defender Mehdi Demiral had stoked the fire by posting a pointed message on social media: “You were right. We focus on AFC.” The remark was a direct reference to the earlier claims by Al Ahli players that a referee had allegedly told them to “focus on the AFC,” and it did little to cool the temperature before kickoff. In the 98th minute, Demiral found himself on the receiving end of a forceful challenge from Coman, who was booked with a yellow card. The decision only deepened the defender’s anger. “They are helping Al Nassr so that they can win the league. This is a disgrace. Look at my legs. What happened is a disgrace. Al Ahli doesn’t need help to achieve anything. Thank God I’m with Al Ahli,” he said in the mixed zone. ديميرال غاضب جداً جداً جداً انهم يساعدون النصر في حتى يحقق البطولة ، هذا عار ، انظروا الى ساقي ، ماحدث عار ، الاهلي لايحتاج للمساعدة حتى يحقق شيء الحمدلله انني مع الاهلي 🤯 pic.twitter.com/5sqXTY6cFL— خالد بن فصلا | KF (@wlv_s1) April 29, 2026 The 2-0 victory at Al Awwal Park has brought Al Nassr to the brink of the SPL title, with the club now sitting first on 79 points from 30 games, eight clear of Al Hilal. With five games remaining, the defeat has all but ended Al Ahli’s title aspirations, leaving them third with 66 points from 29 games and 13 points adrift of the leaders.
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