Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has come to the defense of Cristiano Ronaldo after the legendary Portuguese forward endured another trophyless campaign with his Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, Footynaija.com reports.
Ronaldo’s illustrious career has seen him enjoy plenty of success with a number of top European clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. However, his time at Al Nassr has failed to yield the same joy.
Despite registering 99 goals in 111 appearances since moving to the Saudi Pro League in 2023, the relentless 41-year-old goal machine is yet to win the league title, with only one Arab Club Champions Cup – won in 2023 – to show for his troubles at Al Nassr.
In the just concluded season, Ronaldo scored 35 goals in 41 outings. Yet, he and Al Nassr were left empty handed after finishing third in the Saudi Pro League and suffering eliminations in the King’s Cup and AFC Champions League Elite.
Troost-Ekong, who plies his trade with Al Nassr’s Pro League rivals Al Kholood and has enjoyed the pleasure of playing against Ronaldo in three different leagues across Europe and Asia, believes the Portuguese legend cannot be blamed for his club’s lack of silverware.
What William Troost-Ekong said about Cristiano Ronaldo
“He’s the kind of player you want to have in the league, because he draws attention and I think he brings the best out of everyone,” Troost-Ekong said in an interview with Flashscore.
“He’s so respected and so competitive at the highest level. Not lifting a trophy yet? I’m sure it will frustrate him but I think you also have to respect other teams in the league.
“We have Al Ittihad Club, a historical team that won the league this season with the likes of (Karim) Benzema, Ngolo Kante, Fabinho, Steven Bergwijn and others.
“Same for Al Hilal who have won so many (titles) in previous years with all their stars. They (have) also the Asian Cup, so there are fantastic teams in the league and it’s not easy.
“One man Ronaldo alone cannot win the league or a cup. I’m sure he’ll be fired up to do it before he leaves Al Nassr.
Ronaldo appeared to be done with Al Nassr after posting a cryptic message on social media but it has since been confirmed that the six-time Ballon d’Or winner will continue his storied career at the club come the start of next season.