Cristiano Ronaldo Joins Al-Nassr: Notable Footballers Who Moved to Asia
Cristiano Ronaldo has signed with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr, earning over £177 million annually. This move is part of a growing trend where elite footballers transition to Asia late in their careers for lucrative contracts and new challenges. Other notable players who have made similar moves include Fabio Cannavaro, Okocha, Eto’o, Iniesta, and Xavi.
Cristiano Ronaldo has recently become the latest high-profile footballer to join an Asian club, signing a two-and-a-half-year contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr. At 37 years old, the Portugal captain is set to earn over £177 million annually. His unveiling is scheduled for January 3rd, marking a significant chapter in his illustrious career following his departure from Manchester United.
The trend of elite footballers moving to Asia in the later stages of their careers has become more prevalent. Players often seek new challenges, additional trophies, or financial incentives, as Asian clubs frequently offer lucrative contracts and extended terms to attract retiring stars.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo: After parting ways with Manchester United, Ronaldo signed with Al-Nassr, where he will earn substantial wages and continue his career in the Middle East.
2. Fabio Cannavaro: The Italian defender signed a two-year contract with Al Ahli in 2010 after a brief return to Juventus. He retired after one season due to a severe knee injury, concluding a distinguished 19-year European career.
3. Austin Jay-Jay Okocha: The former Nigerian international joined Qatar SC on a free transfer from Bolton Wanderers in 2006, playing just one season before returning to Hull City, where he subsequently retired after their Premier League promotion.
4. Samuel Eto’o: The Cameroonian striker’s final club was Qatar SC, where he spent one season, scoring six goals in 18 matches before retiring. Eto’o had previously enjoyed success with clubs like Barcelona and Inter Milan.
5. Andres Iniesta: After 16 years at Barcelona, Iniesta moved to Vissel Kobe in Japan in 2018. At 38, he remains an active player, serving as the club captain and contributing significantly in goals and assists since his arrival.
6. Xavi Hernandez: Another Barcelona legend, Xavi left the Catalan club for Al Sadd in Qatar in 2015, where he played for three years before transitioning into coaching. He led Al Sadd to seven trophies before returning to Barcelona as a manager in 2021.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer to Al-Nassr highlights a growing trend of elite footballers transitioning to Asian leagues as they near career end. These players often pursue lucrative contracts, new experiences, or additional trophies, exemplified by notable figures such as Cannavaro, Okocha, Eto’o, Iniesta, and Xavi. This movement not only enhances the profile of Asian football but also provides fresh opportunities for retired stars.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
