Al-Nassr forward Sadio Mané has offered glowing praise for teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, describing the Portuguese superstar as the ultimate example of professionalism and elite mentality in world football.
Mané, who joined the Riyadh-based club from Liverpool in 2023, shared his thoughts during a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand. According to him, training and playing alongside Ronaldo has given him a deeper appreciation of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s extraordinary drive and discipline.
“Cristiano is a role model for every football player in the world,” Mané said. “His mentality, his passion for winning, and his professionalism are on another level. I have never seen a player like him before.”
The Senegalese forward noted that everything he had seen about Ronaldo from afar — the strict routines, the competitive mindset, and the obsessive work ethic — turned out to be exactly true when they became teammates.
“Before I met him, I watched him on TV and read stories about his seriousness and dedication,” he added. “When I came here, I found the same thing. He’s unbelievable — he works hard every single day and still has the desire to win, even at 40.”
Since teaming up at Al-Nassr, Mané and Ronaldo have played 91 matches together across all competitions, combining for 16 goals. Their partnership remains a key weapon for the Saudi Pro League contenders.
Both players are expected to feature this weekend when Al-Nassr face Al-Khaleej.
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