Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus hails Cristiano Ronaldo as 'global icon', Says '80 percent of the fans in attendance are here for him'

Al-Nassr's newly appointed Jorge Jesus has labeled Cristiano Ronaldo as an inspiration in the world of football. The Portugal forward is in the twilight of his career, but is in no mood of slowing down.

The Portuguese forward has enjoyed great success in his career with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. Ronaldo has amassed 938 goals in 1281 matches across all competitions for club and country in his career.

After an unsuccessful stint with Manchester United, he moved to Saudi Arabia in 2022 to begin a new chapter in his career. The Portuguese forward opened the way of the Middle East to the rest of the world, with multiple iconic players following in his footsteps.

However, Cristiano Ronaldo has been unsuccessful to clinch the Saudi Pro League since joining Al-Nassr, his presence has propelled the side to global stardom. The Riyadh-based side have invested in players like Inigo Martinez and Joao Felix this season, but there's no doubt that Ronaldo remains their talisman.

Speaking recently, Jesus said that 80% of fans arrive at the stadium to watch the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

“Ronaldo is a great example for world football, a 40-year-old player who delivers athletic and physical performance, and let’s not forget that 80% of the fans in attendance are here for Ronaldo, and Al Nassr deserves to have this global star," said Jesus.

Ronaldo set up Joao Felix to smash the winner in Al-Nassr's 2-1 win over Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal on Tuesday, August 19.

Cristiano Ronaldo helps Joao Felix to score first goal for Al-Nassr

Despite being restricted to 10 men, Al-Nassr regained the lead in the 61st minute when Felix, who joined the side this summer, scored off a through pass from Cristiano Ronaldo.

Few moments later, Felix thought he scored a second goal too, but his shot was ruled out by VAR for Ronaldo's foul on Fabinho in the build up.

Al-Nassr reached the final, where it will lock horns with the winner of the second semi final between Al-Qadisiah and Al-Ahli on Wednesday.