Cristiano Ronaldo is an idol for many and he knows how to keep the masses happy. At his Al-Nassr unveiling he got an extra cheer from his new fans for speaking in their own language.
Fans might have been expecting his famous cry of ‘siiiuuu’, but it was nowhere to be heard. He did have words of thanks, though, for the warm welcome he has received in Saudi Arabia.
Al-Nassr – the ‘global’ club
Ronaldo’s presentation ceremony at Al-Nassr‘s stadium was spectacular, with a large crowd cheering loudly and chanting his name after a show of lights and pyrotechnics. Images from the event looked more like a trophy celebration than a player unveiling.
Ronaldo spoke in English, talking about the quality of the Saudi league and expressing his desire to “make people happy”. He also greeted youngsters from the club’s academy, kicked balls into the stands and smiled for photos with his family.
Almost forgot
Something was missing though and Ronaldo himself almost forgot before appearing to be reminded by Cristiano Jr. After confessing that he had forgotten a word, he was reminded and then shouted a short phrase loudly in Arabic to the delight of the gathered crowd.
“Ana alamy” was the cry, which means ‘I’m global’, which is a reference to the club’s nickname.
Of course it was all a carefully planned marketing strategy – albeit one which almost went wrong – but the crowd were in good spirits and lapped it up. Ronaldo has started on the right footing in his latest adventure.
