Al-Nassr forward Sadio Mane has opened up about the extraordinary experience of sharing the pitch with legendary teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, describing him as a footballer with unmatched mentality and professionalism. In an exclusive conversation with Rio Ferdinand, the Senegalese star revealed insights into what makes CR7 truly exceptional.
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The Unmatched Mentality of Cristiano Ronaldo
Mane emphasized that Ronaldo serves as an example for every footballer in the world, noting he has never encountered another player quite like the Portuguese superstar. The former Liverpool star shared how the 40-year-old continues to push everyone around him to elevate their game through sheer dedication and work ethic.
When asked about Ronaldo’s training habits, Mane confirmed that while slightly different from expectations, training remains in CR7’s blood—he consistently arrives early and maintains an exceptional impact on the entire squad.
A Partnership Built on Professionalism
| Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Matches Together | 91 games at Al-Nassr |
| Goal Combinations | 16 goals (13 by Ronaldo) |
| Mane’s Al-Nassr Stats | 38 goals, 26 assists in 95 matches |
| Ronaldo’s Age | 40 years old |
Mane admitted that before knowing Ronaldo personally, he had watched him on television and read about his remarkable professionalism and mentality. Meeting him in person at Al-Nassr confirmed everything he had heard—and more.
Why Mane Chose Al-Nassr
When deciding which Saudi Pro League club to join after leaving Bayern Munich, Mane revealed he turned down approaches from former Liverpool teammates Roberto Firmino and Fabinho because the opportunity to team up with Cristiano Ronaldo was simply too tempting.
For more insights on how football legends inspire the next generation, and to explore Al-Nassr’s remarkable journey in Saudi football, this partnership represents more than just statistics—it’s about learning from greatness.
Discover more about Ronaldo’s incredible career milestones and stay updated with the latest Saudi Pro League action.
FAQs
Q: How many matches have Sadio Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo played together at Al-Nassr?
A: The duo have played 91 matches together at Al-Nassr, combining for 16 goals with Ronaldo scoring 13 of them.
Q: What does Sadio Mane admire most about Cristiano Ronaldo?
A: Mane particularly admires Ronaldo’s unmatched mentality, professionalism, and passion for winning, noting that he pushes everyone around him to improve and serves as a role model for footballers worldwide.