Cristiano Ronaldo reveals four places he turned down to join Al Nassr following Man Utd exit

Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed he could have continued to play football in Europe, as he was unveiled as an Al Nassr player on Tuesday.

The 37-year-old’s signing was confirmed last week, with the Saudi Arabian club saying in a statement: “History in the making. This is a signing that will not only inspire our club to achieve even greater success but inspire our league, our nation and future generations, boys and girls to be the best version of themselves.”

Ronaldo is set to earn a reported £177m per year with Al Nassr, and Gary Neville claimed last week he felt a ‘sadness’ that Ronaldo will no longer be involved at the top level of football. However, the ex-Manchester United attacker has explained why he chose to move to Saudi Arabia above offers from clubs in Europe and elsewhere.

“For me, this is a great opportunity, not only in football but to change the mentality of the new generation, as nobody knows, but I can say now, I had many opportunities in Europe, many clubs, in Brazil, in Australia, US, even in Portugal," Ronaldo said.

"There are many clubs who tried to sign me but I gave my word to this club for the opportunity. Not only to develop the football but other parts of the country. For me it’s a good challenge. I know what I want and I know what I don’t want.

"For me, it’s a good chance to change, to help with my knowledge and experience to grow many important points. Also, women’s football as well and I want to give a different vision of the country, of the football, of the perspective of everybody. This is why I’m here and why I took this opportunity."

Ronaldo has signed a two-year contract at Al Nassr after he left United by mutual termination during the World Cup.