Ronaldo's career began with Sporting in Portugal during the 2002-2003 season. This marks his 24th season, and he is determined to win his first official title with Al Nassr. At 40, the Portuguese superstar remains central to the club's ambition to reclaim the domestic title, a feat they haven't achieved in six years.

Coach Jorge Jesus and Cristiano Ronaldo. Photo: Ojogo

Coach Jorge Jesus and Cristiano Ronaldo. Photo: Ojogo

Since joining Al Nassr in January 2023, Ronaldo has not only scored 100 goals but has also significantly influenced the club's direction. This summer, his close friends Jose Semedo and Simao Coutinho joined Al Nassr's management team. They played a role in bringing coach Jorge Jesus back to Saudi Arabia and persuading Joao Felix to partner with Ronaldo in the forward line. The combination of Ronaldo and Felix is likened to a main striker and an attacking midfielder.

Al Nassr's primary objective is to win the championship. Their last national title was in the 2018-2019 season under Rui Vitoria. Since then, they have finished second twice and third once, consistently trailing Al Hilal and Al Ittihad. Just before the season, Jesus' team experienced a setback, losing to Al Ahli in a penalty shootout in the Saudi Super Cup final, despite Ronaldo assisting Felix's goal to eliminate Al Ittihad in the semi-final.

The opening Saudi Pro League match against Al Taawoun is therefore considered a crucial test for Al Nassr. They are likely to start with a lineup featuring many renowned European players, especially in attack. Ronaldo will be supported by Felix, Sadio Mane, and Kingsley Coman.

This season's Saudi League, comprising 18 teams and running from August 2025 to May 2026, promises to be fierce. Al Hilal has added defender Theo Hernandez and forward Darwin Nunez to a squad that already boasts Joao Cancelo, Ruben Neves, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

Defending champions Al Ittihad have retained Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, and Fabinho under coach Laurent Blanc. Al Ahli holds the Asian championship title and recently defeated Al Nassr in the Saudi Super Cup. Consequently, Al Nassr is expected to face many challenges in their pursuit of the title.

Hoang An