Ronaldo Nazário returns to the Bernabeu for Real Madrid vs Real Valladolid

Later tonight, Ronaldo Nazário will enjoy a special reunion with the Bernabeu faithful as Real Madrid collide with Real Valladolid.

At the peak of his powers, the Brazilian icon stood alone as the greatest player on the planet. With awe-inspiring skills and undeniable charisma, he captured the hearts of fans around the globe, en route to cementing his place as a ‘La Casa Blanca’ legend, scoring 103 goals in 177 appearances.

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In 2002/03, he played alongside the likes of Luis Figo and Zinedine Zidane, as part of the Los Blancos’ Galácticos project, in which the side won an iconic La Liga title.

But now that his time as a player has come to an end, rather than rest on his laurels, he’s looking to further extend his footballing legacy.

Five years ago, Ronaldo acquired 51% of Real Valladolid and has subsequently made a huge impact. Throughout his stint, the two-time World Cup winner has gone above and beyond for the side by launching a fan zone outside the stadium on matchday to sharing unique content through Pucela Play, to developing the RV International Academy. In addition, he helped the Spanish team secure their best La Liga finish since 1999/2000, bagging 13th place in 2019/20.

And later tonight, he’ll look to make even more history by producing a monumental upset at one of the most famous grounds on Earth.

Read: Athletic Bilbao travel to England to support Dulwich Hamlet  against Oxford (sporf.com)

Ronaldo Nazário wants to make a statement against Real Madrid

During his spell with Madrid, he developed a tight relationship with Florentino Pérez, whom he considers an example to follow when it comes to directing a football club.

Speaking during DAZN’s docuseries ‘Ronaldo: El Presidente’, the player explained: “We are great friends, and I have been able to join him at the Bernabéu twice as president. To be able to sit there with him was a really amazing feeling. He is a man who taught me everything. I would like to work at Real Valladolid as well as he works at Real Madrid.”

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However, his admiration for his old club won’t stop him from trying to pull off the victory. Ronaldo has one major goal in mind, and it’s to make his side into a global powerhouse.

He beamed: “Trust us to consolidate Real Valladolid in LaLiga Santander and grow the enthusiasm that exists. If all of us stay together, I am convinced that it will be very difficult to beat us.”

Earlier this season, Real Madrid defeated Real Valladolid by a 2-0 margin. However, with Ronaldo’s boys growing in confidence, ‘O Fenômeno‘ believes his team can overcome the odds.

Featured Image Credit: La Liga