Alvaro Gonzalez Reveals Cristiano Ronaldo’s True Nature Off the Pitch
Former Al-Nassr defender Alvaro Gonzalez has given a revealing account of Cristiano Ronaldo’s character away from the public eye during their time together at the Saudi club. According to Gonzalez, Ronaldo is approachable and humble behind closed doors but transforms into an intense competitor when he steps onto the field.
Behind the Scenes at Al-Nassr
During their spell in Riyadh, Gonzalez noted that the five-time Ballon d'Or winner consistently supported his teammates and maintained a modest attitude. This positive atmosphere in the dressing room made a strong impression on everyone involved with the team.
"Honestly, and after confirming it with other team-mates we've had in common, he’s absolutely fantastic inside the dressing room," Gonzalez shared on Radio MARCA.
A Sudden Shift on the Pitch
Gonzalez explained the clear contrast between Ronaldo’s behavior off the pitch and his fierce mentality during matches. As soon as kick-off arrives, the Portuguese forward becomes a "competitive beast," driven by an unyielding desire to win.
"Inside the dressing room, he’s a completely normal person, approachable and someone who helps you. However, that demeanour changes instantly when he steps onto the pitch," Gonzalez said.
Relentless Drive in Training
The defender also described their physical battles in training sessions, which were intense but friendly. Afterward, they would relax together, joking and sharing laughs, showing the camaraderie that existed beyond competition.
"We’d go to the jacuzzi, have some laughs and joke around, and it would all be forgotten," Gonzalez recalled.
Legacy Among Football Legends
Gonzalez acknowledged Ronaldo’s place in football history alongside his long-time rival Lionel Messi, emphasizing their lasting impact on the sport.
"People like him and [Lionel] Messi will go down in the history of football," he concluded.
Ronaldo’s Ongoing Quest for Goals
During the 2022-23 season, Ronaldo and Gonzalez appeared together in 11 matches across competitions, achieving six wins before the defender left Al-Nassr. Now 41 years old and signed with the club until June 2027, Ronaldo is chasing an extraordinary milestone: reaching 1,000 official goals. So far, he has scored 978 goals in 1,333 appearances, continuing to lead Al-Nassr both domestically and in continental tournaments.
- Player: Cristiano Ronaldo
- Club: Al-Nassr FC
- Teammate: Alvaro Gonzalez
- Matches together (2022-23): 11
- Victories together: 6
- Ronaldo’s age: 41
- Contract expiry: June 2027
- Official goals scored: 978
- Total appearances: 1,333
Upcoming Fixture
- Competition: Saudi Pro League
- Date: 5 Sept 2026
- Time: 20:00
- Match: Al Ittihad vs Al Nassr FC
