Cristiano Ronaldo’s player profile

Beloved by many as the greatest football player of all time, Ronaldo was born in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, on February 5, 1985. His extraordinary talent quickly brought him recognition.

At the age of just 17, Ronaldo made his senior squad debut in 2002 after joining Sporting Lisbon’s development system in 1997 and making impressive progress. Football’s major clubs worldwide took notice of his electrifying displays at Sporting, which included his first goal as a professional in 2002.

An important turning point occurred in a 2003 friendly match against Manchester United, which paved the way for his later-year transfer to the Premier League’s biggest clubs. During his three Premier League championships and one Ballon d’Or nomination, Ronaldo accomplished a number of personal bests during his time at Manchester United from 2003 to 2009. What will really define his career, though, is what he accomplished after leaving England.

Ronaldo’s early years laid the foundation for his legendary career, featuring dazzling dribbles, remarkable goals, and an unrivaled work ethic. His journey from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United led to his global stardom and future status as a football icon.

Cristiano Ronaldo at Sporting Lisbon

There, at Sporting Lisbon, Cristiano Ronaldo made his football debut and excelled. Several elite teams, including Manchester United, took notice of his performances. His transfer in 2003 was the result of Sir Alex Ferguson’s attention being drawn to him during a friendly match against Manchester United, which was his most notable moment.

During his brief stay at Sporting Lisbon, Ronaldo showed early indications of extraordinary skill, displayed rapid development, and put on stunning performances. These qualities laid the groundwork for an incredible career that included his first professional goal.

Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United

Cristiano Ronaldo’s spell at Manchester United from 2003 to 2009 marked a significant turning point in his career and the club’s history. Despite initial skepticism and adaptation challenges, Ronaldo’s work ethic, determination, and talent eventually silenced his critics.

Ronaldo scored his first Premier League goal in 2003, helping Manchester United win three consecutive titles from 2007 to 2009 and a Champions League triumph in 2008. His prolific form earned him the FIFA World Player of the Year award and his first Ballon d’Or.

Ronaldo’s football brilliance, leadership, and teamwork were all on display during his tenure at Manchester United. He won over admirers all around the world with his amazing free kicks and aerial skill. His accomplishments, victories, and enduring influence on Manchester United are testaments to his legacy.

Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2009 marked a significant shift in the football world, elevating him to a true football legend and carrying on the legacy of legendary players.

Ronaldo’s prolific goal-scoring ability was evident during his Real Madrid career, when he scored 451 goals in 438 games. He showed his incredible ability to score from unimaginable angles during the 2009–2010 Champions League. In 2013 and 2014, his extraordinary determination, athleticism, and consistency set new benchmarks for excellence.

Ronaldo’s career was marked by a memorable comeback victory in the 2013-2014 Champions League final against Atletico Madrid, marking Real Madrid’s 10th European Cup/Champions League title. He also led Real Madrid to two La Liga titles and numerous domestic trophies, culminating in a historic La Liga-Champions League double in 2016.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact on the world of football was significant both on and off the pitch. His charisma, dedication to physical fitness, and goals made him a football icon. Ronaldo’s tenure at Real Madrid marked a golden age in the club’s legacy.

Cristiano Ronaldo at Juventus

Cristiano Ronaldo joined Juventus in 2018 and made his debut in a Serie A match against Chievo Verona. He scored his first Serie A title and influenced the team’s mentality and performance, leaving an enduring mark on the club.

Ronaldo, during his tenure at Juventus, set records by becoming the club’s fastest player to reach 50 goals in 2019-2020. His perseverance and strong work ethic allowed him to win the Coppa Italia title as well as several Scudetto victories.

Ronaldo significantly impacted Juventus’ global appeal, increasing merchandise sales and brand recognition. He declared his exit following three prosperous seasons and rejoined Manchester United in August 2021, having netted 101 goals in 134 games as a first-team player.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United

Ronaldo returned to Manchester United for an initial £12.85m fee, a move he made during a transitional period. In September 2021, he made his second appearance for Manchester United, scoring twice in a Champions League and Premier League victory.

In December 2021, Ronaldo scored two goals against Arsenal, surpassing 800 career goals. However, poor form and disappointing results under Rangnick left Ronaldo disillusioned. He ended his first season with 24 goals, but the Champions League failure fueled speculation.

New manager Erik ten Hag claimed Ronaldo was not for sale, but controversy arose during the first half of the season, leading to his drop for Chelsea. Ronaldo returned to first-team action, but public criticism fractured his relationship with the club, leading to his departure in November 2022.

Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr

After signing a €200 million-a-year contract with Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo becomes the highest-paid athlete in history. His contract runs until 2025.

In January 2023, he made his Al Nassr debut, scoring his first goal in a 2-2 draw against Al-Fateh, and ended his first season with 14 goals in 19 first-team appearances.

Ronaldo won the Arab Club Champions Cup for Al Nassr, scoring twice in the final, marking his second season in the Middle East.

Cristiano Ronaldo with Portugal

Ronaldo, a football icon since 2003, has achieved numerous records and milestones with the Portuguese national team. He captained Portugal to victory in the 2016 UEFA European Championship, despite being injured in the final.

Ronaldo’s international journey includes a 2008 Euro semi-final victory for Portugal, becoming the country’s all-time leading scorer in 2014, reaching 100 goals in 2020, and helping Portugal win their first UEFA Nations League title.

Ronaldo’s impressive international career, including World Cup qualifiers, European Championships, and Nations League matches, showcases his dedication to representing Portugal with distinction and inspires football fans worldwide.