Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo and his Saudi club, Al Nassr, have landed in Lagos as part of their preseason tour ahead of the new Saudi Pro League season.
The team had earlier been training in Lisbon, Portugal, before moving to Nigeria. Al Nassr confirmed the switch via a social media post, stating: “Lisbon chapter closed, Lagos chapter loading.”
Ronaldo touched down alongside his teammates, including new signing João Félix and Senegalese international Sadio Mané, as the club intensifies preparations for the upcoming campaign.
The star-studded squad has made several additions during the transfer window to strengthen their team, with eyes set on major domestic and continental honours this season.
During their preseason in Europe, Al Nassr defeated French side Toulouse 2-1, with Ronaldo registering his name on the scoresheet. Their next major fixture is a high-stakes Saudi Super Cup clash against arch-rivals Al Ittihad.
Photos circulating online showed the players arriving in Lagos and participating in training sessions. Fans were quick to point out that Ronaldo wore a bib marked with the number 9 — a departure from his iconic number 7 jersey. In several pictures, he was seen in orange and yellow bibs bearing the unfamiliar number.
His presence has sparked excitement across Nigeria’s football-loving population, with many eager to catch a glimpse of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Al Nassr’s visit is expected to include a series of training activities and community engagements while in Lagos.
