Luiz Gustavo, Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammate at Al Nassr, admits that the arrival of the superstar does present some difficulties, but comes with obvious advantages as well.
The veteran striker turned 38 on Sunday, two days after he scored his first goal for the Saudi Arabian club in a 2-2 draw at Al Fateh.
That draw followed a defeat in the Saudi Super Cup to Al Ittihad and Gustavo does think opponents have upped their game since the Portuguese icon arrived in the country, making things more difficult for them.
‘Certainly the presence of Cristiano makes it difficult for us as all teams seek to participate against him in the best possible way, and he gives motivation to everyone [we play],’ Gustavo told RT Arabic.
However, there is no doubt that one of the greatest players of all time is a benefit to Al Nassr on and off the pitch, despite his advancing years.
The Brazilian, who has played for the likes of Bayern Munich, Marseille and Wolfsburg, says Ronaldo is the ideal teammate to learn from and is bound to succeed as Al Nassr bid for the league title this season.
‘His presence at Al-Nassr gives a great advantage to the group because we learn from him everyday, given the great capabilities he possesses, both technically and physically,’ said Gustavo.
‘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.’
Despite the draw at Al Fateh, Al Nassr still sit top of the Saudi league aheadnof a trip to Al Wehda on Thursday.
