Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed confidence that his eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., has the physical tools to one day surpass him as a footballer, though he cautioned that mental drive will determine how far the teenager goes. The Portuguese superstar’s son now trains at Al Nassr’s youth setup in Saudi Arabia, having joined the club’s under-13 side back in 2023, the same year his father made his official debut for the team after signing in 2022.
Ronaldo Praises Son’s Temperament
Speaking ahead of Al Nassr’s upcoming fixture on August 15, Ronaldo revealed he recently watched his son train and came away impressed by his attitude, describing him as well-behaved and easier to manage than some of the club’s younger academy prospects. He noted that his son is already taller and more physically developed than he was at the same age, suggesting the youngster could eventually grow bigger and stronger than him. However, Ronaldo suggested that physical gifts alone won’t be enough, pointing to hunger and determination as the toughest quality to instill.
Previous Stint At Manchester United
Before moving to the Middle East, Ronaldo Jr. spent time in Manchester United’s academy setup, joining around the time his father returned to Old Trafford. His time there came to an end amid the circumstances surrounding his father’s controversial United exit, after which the young player also departed the academy.
With his father now settled at Al Nassr, Ronaldo Jr. continues to develop within the club’s youth ranks, carrying both the weight and the advantage of one of football’s most famous surnames as he charts his own path in the sport.