In a pre-season match that concluded yesterday, Al-Nassr defeated Portuguese Primeira Liga side Rio Ave 4-0. After the game, Al-Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored a hat-trick in the match, gave an interview to Camel Live, touching on various topics and situations.
On João Félix’s arrival
For Félix, playing in Saudi Arabia is better than in the Portuguese league. He is a very talented player, and he will bring us great help at Al-Nassr and in the Saudi league. He will provide something we might have lacked last season. We are gradually gelling and helping him integrate into the team, hoping he can adapt to the team’s style and the league as soon as possible.
Do you think Al-Nassr "stole" Félix from Benfica?
The word "steal" isn’t good; no one can steal anything from Benfica. But regardless, as I said, Félix is a very talented player. I’ve worked with him in the national team, so I know his abilities and what he can bring to us. I’m very happy he’s joined us; he’s a great addition, and he will be a big help to us in the new season.
Did you call Félix to convince him?
I wouldn’t do that, nor would I call any player, because that’s not my job. We have professionals in charge of that.
So you’re right... My job is to train and play. We just need to achieve excellent results on the pitch; that’s our top priority as players. For other aspects, including squad planning, we have the club’s directors and executives to decide.
On his view of the Saudi league
The Saudi league is highly competitive, but you don’t have that perspective or feeling because you haven’t played there, watched games in person, or understood the rhythm of the matches. You might have only seen their games in the Club World Cup. But you could also see how well they performed – that’s what people don’t realize because they haven’t experienced the intensity of this league first-hand.
On his view of manager Jorge Jesus
I’m glad he’s joined us to lead the team. He did an excellent job when coaching Al-Hilal; he’s a very good manager. I think Jorge Jesus has brought different energy and new ideas, and we must stay calm and gradually adapt to his coaching.
We can’t draw conclusions about the new season yet, but the team is training well. I hope we can maintain our level this year and win titles.
We will work step by step to build a team with the responsibility and status needed to win championships in Saudi Arabia, because this is a league with excellent players.
On the importance of pre-season preparations
The most important thing in pre-season is good training and regaining fitness. We want to be fully prepared for our first official game in the Saudi Super Cup semi-finals.
On the feeling of scoring in pre-season
Scoring is always a good thing... I’m happy that we’re progressing well in pre-season. Hopefully, we can keep this form and carry forward our strengths.
On the Portuguese league restarting this weekend
I hope it will be a competitive league. I always wish them the best and hope Sporting CP can win the league title again.
On Gyökeres leaving Sporting CP to join Arsenal
People only focus on the players who are still in the team, that’s what they say. I think Sporting CP will be a strong contender in the league next season. Gyökeres is a special player, but the team needs to adapt to his departure.
I think Suárez from Almería is an excellent striker. Haddad is also a good young player; he just needs some time. I watched the Super Cup, and Sporting CP played well against Benfica, but they didn’t win because they couldn’t close out the game – that’s football.
