In July 2025, Alex Telles, the talented Brazilian full-back, who had recently tasted victory in the Europa League during his loan spell at Sevilla, made a significant decision. He chose to leave Manchester United and embark on a new journey with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. What prompted this pivotal move was a heartfelt conversation with none other than the iconic Portuguese football star, Cristiano Ronaldo.
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Telles recalled the moment, stating, “When Al-Nassr talked to me the first time, I sent a message to Cristiano and his answer was to come (join him)” This endorsement from Ronaldo, a true football legend, held great weight for Telles.
We have officially signed the Brazilian Star Alex Telles ✍️
We wish him good luck with our stars 🙏#TellesIsYellow 💛 pic.twitter.com/tpGylmgMB8
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) July 23, 2023
The Brazilian full-back couldn’t help but admire Ronaldo’s continuous growth and increasing wealth of experience. He marveled at Ronaldo’s goal-scoring prowess and the numerous records he had shattered over the years.
“Watch the number of goals he scores. I will be biased when I talk about him because of the records he broke, and I was lucky to play with him at Manchester United and then Al-Nassr”
Telles was particularly grateful for the privilege of having played alongside Ronaldo at both Manchester United and now at Al-Nassr. And he had been making an impact at his current club. Check out his assist for the Brazilian striker, Talisca.
Talisca ⚽️⚽️⚽️🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/l4AHH0FM9H
— L Y D O N 🦁 (@Shayor19) September 25, 2023
He spoke fondly of Ronaldo’s enduring influence, describing him as a decisive player and an exceptional leader.
“(Ronaldo) is still a decisive player and a great leader who always takes responsibility in the dressing room, helps everyone, and creates a good atmosphere.”
Currently, Al-Nassr stands as the second-ranked team in the league, a mere four points adrift of the league leader, Al-Hilal. The future holds promise for this chapter in Alex Telles’ career alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in their quest for glory with Al-Nassr.
Samba Gold 2023: Open voting!
Voting for the Samba Gold Award 2023 is now open. Choose your favorite in the men’s, women’s, and under-20 categories!