"Has the same passion and enthusiasm as if he were still young" - Al-Nassr boss on experience of working with Cristiano Ronaldo

Al-Nassr manager Stefano Pioli has hailed legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo for his passion for the game of football. The Italian tactician has worked alongside the Portuguese star since he moved to the Saudi outfit in September.

The Real Madrid legend has been phenomenal under Pioli in their seven games together. The superstar has scored five times and provided one assist in the 623 minutes he has played under the 59-year-old.

Speaking in a recent interview with A BOLA, the former AC Milan boss hailed the Portuguese star for his drive, saying:

“I discovered that Cristiano still has the same passion and enthusiasm as if he were still young despite his advanced age, always striving for achievements. He gives his best to score more goals and help the team. He definitely impressed me.”

Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr next face title rivals Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro-League tomorrow (November 1). The side will be keen to secure a win against their rivals and close the five-point gap between them on the league table.

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"He will be there [at the 2026 World Cup]; he’s not going to give up” - PSG star believes Al-Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo will be at the next World Cup

Paris Saint-Germain star Vitinha believes that Al-Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo will play for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup. The veteran striker is in the final stages of his illustrious career and will be on the other side of 40 when the competition gets underway.

Ronaldo is the highest goalscorer in his nation's history, with 133 strikes in 216 games. He led the nation to their maiden European trophy at Euro 2016.

Vitinha believes he will feature for them in the North American World Cup a decade from that success. Speaking about the legendary forward's inclusion on RMC's Rothen s’enflamme podcast. he said:

“39 years old and still a starter for the national team, I have no explanation for this longevity. He has already said it, and I imagine it’s the professionalism he has in everything he does. In the morning, in the evening, every day of his career, it’s incredible. I can imagine the efforts and sacrifices he must make and has made. And I also imagine that’s what has kept him in this condition at 39 years old."

The mercurial midfielder concluded, saying:

"But yes, it’s a privilege for me. We are small, we are children, we dream of playing with him one day, and it’s happening. Luckily, I’ve had quite a few years to enjoy the national team with him… Of course, he will be there [at the 2026 World Cup]; he’s not going to give up.”

Cristiano Ronaldo is currently in the final year of his contract with Al-Nassr and continues to be a potent goal threat for the club and his nation. He has bagged three goals in his last four games for his country and is currently in pursuit of his 1000th career goal.