Former Manchester United player Cristiano Ronaldo has been described as the most influential person in football by Al Nassr forward Diogo Dalot, according to a report by FourFourTwo.
Diogo Dalot, a Manchester United defender, played alongside Ronaldo before the record-breaking goal scorer moved to Saudi Arabia in January last year.
“I’ve never actually said this before, but Cristiano is the most influential person I’ve ever had in football, on and off the pitch,” said Dalot, a 25-year-old fellow countryman of Ronaldo.
Dalot admitted that part of his motivation for joining Manchester United was his desire to follow in Ronaldo’s footsteps.
“I consider him a friend, yet it sounds surreal because he was my idol, my reference, for years. I first met him properly at Euro 2020, and any time I spend with him makes me feel richer in terms of knowledge.”
“I can draw from his vast experience, talent, and wisdom,” added Dalot, who played 54 times with the star footballer.
The Portuguese pair first appeared together against France in a 2-2 draw during the Champions League in 2021.
The 39-year-old Ronaldo also acknowledged Dalot as one of the teammates who paid attention to his suggestions.
