Sadio Mane's Stunning Admission on Cristiano Ronaldo
Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane has made a stunning admission about his Al-Nassr teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, revealing that the Portuguese superstar has exceeded all his expectations since their paths crossed in Saudi Arabia.
The Senegalese international, who joined the Saudi Pro League club in 2023 after departing Bayern Munich, finds himself sharing a dressing room with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, who had arrived at Al-Nassr just a few months earlier.
'An Example For Any Footballer'
Despite having played alongside some of football's biggest names during his illustrious career, including Mohamed Salah and Thiago Alcantara at Liverpool, Mane confessed that no player compares to the Portugal captain.
In an interview on Rio Ferdinand Presents, the African star was unequivocal in his praise. "He's an example for any footballer," Mane stated. "I've never seen another player like him."
Mane explained that while he had long admired Ronaldo's professionalism from afar, witnessing it firsthand at Al-Nassr revealed that the reality surpasses the legend.
The Secret to Ronaldo's Longevity
The former Liverpool winger detailed what he believes is the secret to Ronaldo's remarkable longevity and success, even as the forward approaches his 40s.
"He works hard every single day, he wants to win always, even at 40," Mane revealed. "He's a complete athlete. His impact is exceptional. His mentality and passion for football have no comparison."
Mane went further to explain the daily routine that sets Ronaldo apart. "He is hungry every single day, even at 40-years-old. Training is in his blood. He comes early and leaves like everybody else, so it's normal, but his mentality and hunger to win - I have never seen it in any athlete."
The Senegalese star concluded with simple admiration: "His professionalism is amazing."
World Cup swansong approaches
As Ronaldo approaches what is expected to be the final chapter of his international career, the Al-Nassr forward is set to feature at next summer's World Cup, which is anticipated to be his final major tournament representing Portugal.
Mane's comments provide a unique insight into the dedication that has sustained Ronaldo's career at the highest level for over two decades, even as he continues to compete in Saudi Arabia's growing football league.
