CRISTIANO RONALDO has claimed that “multiple” clubs in Europe tried to sign him as he was unveiled by Al-Nassr.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, 37, is now the highest-paid sportsperson ever after he signed a lucrative £173million-a-year deal with the Saudi Pro League club on Friday.
ReutersCristiano Ronaldo claims ‘multiple’ clubs in Europe wanted him before he joined Al Nassr[/caption]
Ronaldo, who was released by Manchester United last month after his explosive interview with Piers Morgan, arrived in Riyadh on Monday and was greeted by a large group of adoring fans.
The forward then underwent his medical on Tuesday ahead of his official unveiling, which took place at Al-Nassr’s home stadium – Mrsool Park.
Thousands of fans were in attendance to welcome the former Real Madrid star to the club.
And he has now insisted that he rejected offers from clubs across the globe in order to move to Saudi – contrary to various reports claiming there was a serious lack of interest in him.
Ronaldo said: “For me, this is a great opportunity in football and to change the mentality of the new generation.
“Nobody knew, but I can say now, I had many opportunities in Europe, many clubs, in Brazil, in Australia, the US, even in Portugal there were many clubs that tried to sign me.
“But I gave my word to this club, for the opportunity to develop not only the football but the other part of this amazing country.”
Ronaldo added: “For me it is a good challenge. I know what I want and, of course, what I don’t want as well.
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“So for me, it is a good chance to change, help, with my experience and knowledge to grow many important points.
“Also, I want to give a different vision of the country, the football and the perspective of everybody and this is why I took this opportunity.”
Ronaldo’s name has been displayed across the city of Riyadh since he was announced as an Al-Nassr player on Friday.
Hundreds of fans have flocked to the club’s official shop in a bid to get their hands on his iconic No7 shirt.
And those in attendance at Friday’s Saudi Pro League clash with Al-Khaleej continued to chant his name throughout the seventh minute of the match in celebration following the announcement of his arrival.
Ronaldo is now expected to Al-Nassr debut on January 14 in a derby against Al-Shabab.