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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Casey Evans

Cristiano Ronaldo told he deserves astronomical Al-Nassr contract after Man United exit

Cristiano Ronaldo was officially unveiled as an Al-Nassr player on Tuesday with the Portugal forward confirming his return to club football after his departure from Manchester United.

Ronaldo left United by mutual agreement after the 37-year-old gave an interview with Piers Morgan where he took aim at his new manager Erik ten Hag and the Glazer ownership. It seemed from his interview that the 37-year-old believed that many Champions League clubs would be in for him but these moves never materialised.

As part of his deal to join Al-Nassr, Ronaldo agreed a two and a half year contract that when wages and commercial payments are combined, would see him receive £175m per season. It has made him the highest-paid player of all time.

READ MORE: Ten Hag issues Martial injury update and gives Man United team news vs Everton

It has been claimed that the move signals the end of Ronaldo's career at the top level despite the player insisting during his press conference this week that he had offers from Europe, Australia and the United States.

However, Brazil and Barcelona legend Rivaldo believes that Ronaldo made the right decision and that the huge money on offer at Al-Nassr is a reward for a long and successful career.

He told Betfair: “Cristiano Ronaldo has finally signed with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia and it was interesting to hear that he has offers from all around the globe, including Brazilian clubs.

“It would have been special to have Cristiano here, especially because most Brazilian people like the Portuguese player and all that he has achieved in football. I’m sure it could have been a huge attraction in the country if he had decided to move to Brazil.

“Anyway, I think that his decision of moving to Saudi Arabia was the right call if we consider the contract value, that in some way works as a recognition award for his amazing career."

Rivaldo continued: “Of course, he doesn’t need that money, but it’s always nice to be recognised for your efforts and this is like a kind of coronation of a great player that is now at the final steps of his beautiful career as a player.

“To be paid like this at almost 38 years-old just underlines his importance in the world of football for many years.”

In terms of what happens on the pitch, Ronaldo will not be able to make his debut for Al-Nassr straight away. He will have to serve a two-match suspension that was given to him by the FA at his new club due to a FIFA ruling.

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