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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Will Freeman

When is Cristiano Ronaldo's first game for Al-Nassr? Date and UK TV details

Since joining Al-Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo has drawn huge attention to the Saudi Pro League and he could be set to make his debut in the competition later this week.

The legendary Portuguese striker left Manchester United in November and joined the Saudi league leaders on a free transfer following the World Cup in a reported £175 million per year deal. Having had his deal confirmed last Friday, he has travelled to join up with the squad which includes former Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina and Brazilian ex-Bayern Munich star Luiz Gustavo.

He was unveiled at the club on Tuesday, with an official ceremony having taken place at 4pm GMT. The Portuguese star has also signed up for an ambassadorial role which will see him promote the Saudi bid to host the 2030 World Cup alongside Egypt and Greece.

Read more: United have got their biggest decision right after getting it wrong

While there is much to look at in terms of off-field news regarding this transfer, eyes will begin to turn towards his on-pitch fortunes and his debut, here is what we know so far:

When will Ronaldo make his Al-Nassr debut?

Following his unveiling on Tuesday, Ronaldo could make his debut for the club as early as this Thursday, as his new side faces Al-Ta’ee at home in the Saudi Pro League.

They will then face second placed Al-Shabab away from home at the weekend in what will be a big test for Rudi Garcia's men. Unfortunately, UK fans will be unable to watch the matches on TV with the Saudi Pro League yet to establish a broadcast deal in the UK.

What did Ronaldo say at his unveiling?

Ronaldo, speaking at his Al-Nassr unveiling press conference on Tuesday, was asked about his decision to move to Riyadh and he claimed the switch was about a 'great opportunity', despite interest from clubs in Europe and beyond.

"For me, this is a great opportunity, not only in football but to change the mentality of the new generation, as nobody knows, but I can say now, I had many opportunities in Europe, many clubs, in Brazil, in Australia, US, even in Portugal," Ronaldo said.

"There are many clubs who tried to sign me but I gave my word to this club for the opportunity. Not only to develop the football but other parts of the country. For me it's a good challenge. I know what I want and I know what I don't want.

"For me, it's a good chance to change, to help with my knowledge and experience to grow many important points. Also, women's football as well and I want to give a different vision of the country, of the football, of the perspective of everybody.

"This is why I'm here and why I took this opportunity."

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