Cristiano Ronaldo Pays Tribute to Former Coach Who Discovered Him

• Cristiano Ronaldo has saluted his ex-coach who discovered him
• Ronaldo began his senior career with Sporting CP, before signing with Manchester United in 2003
• He made 31 appearances, scoring five goals and providing six assists

Cristiano Ronaldo recently conveyed a touching message to former Sporting CP youth coach Aurelio Pereira, who was recognized at a Portuguese award ceremony.

Ronaldo entered Sporting CP's youth system from Nacional Youth in 1997, where Pereira coached him during his academy days.

Pereira, known for discovering talents, played a key role in shaping the careers of legends like Luis Figo and Quaresma, in addition to Ronaldo.

The Portugal Football Federation recently recognised Pereira at the Quinas de Ouro gala for his contributions.

Ronaldo also expressed his sentiments for his former coach, stating via Sportskeeda:

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"I am very happy that Mr. Aurélio received this honour. It is well deserved. As you know, it was very important in our training, not only for me but for many of my teammates. As everyone knows, Mr. Aurélio has a different eye everyone else and he always had an aptitude for seeing the stars and helping."

He added:

"He makes me extremely happy. I know he's in excellent shape. He's already better and I hope he can last for many, many years. It's a pleasure for me to send him this message. I hope you can enjoy this evening. A big hug, friend."

Ronaldo proceeded to make his senior debut for Sporting CP in 2002.

During this period, he accumulated 31 appearances, scoring five goals, contributing six assists, and securing victory in the Portuguese Super Cup.

Ronaldo settles long-standing GOAT debate

Sports Brief also reported on Cristiano Ronaldo perhaps ending the raging GOAT debate with his latest thoughts on the enduring rivalry between himself and Lionel Messi.

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The long-standing and impassioned debate regarding who holds the title of the greatest of all time between these two football legends is one that may continue indefinitely.

However, Ronaldo's remarks during Portugal's press conference could be seen as a pivotal moment in potentially settling this debate once and for all.