Portuguese legend and Al Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo's presence in the dressing room has 'made it difficult' for his teammates, said former Brazilian midfielder Luiz Gustavo.
Ronaldo kickstarted his career in the Saudi Pro League with a goal from the penalty spot during Al Nassr's 2-2 draw against Al Fateh last week. His addition to the side has undoubtedly made them favourites to lift the trophy yet again, and Gustavo says that other clubs are targeting Al Nassr because of Ronaldo's abilities.
“Certainly, the presence of Cristiano (Ronaldo) makes it difficult for us, as all teams seek to participate against him in the best possible way, and he gives motivation to everyone,” Gustavo told RT Arabic.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has only managed to score one goal in three games for Al Nassr since joining the Saudi club, scoring a late penalty against Al Fateh. But this does not reduce his stature in the league. Despite Gustavo's claims that Ronaldo's premier status is an issue while facing tough opposition, Gustavo added that Ronaldo gives the team a ‘huge advantage’
‘His presence at Al-Nassr gives a great advantage to the group because we learn from him every day, given the great capabilities he possesses, both technically and physically. Cristiano Ronaldo was created for challenges and he always succeeds in them. And everyone here is waiting for what he will present. He has already scored his first goal and he, therefore, got rid of the pressure,’ the 35-year-old added.
Gustavo himself is a veteran of the European football game, having won six trophies, including the 2012–13 UEFA Champions League with Bayern Munich. The Brazilian also won the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup on home soil and played the full 90 minutes as Brazil defeated world champions Spain 3–0 in the final.
He also played every minute of Brazil's 2014 FIFA World Cup campaign, sans the quarterfinal.
