Portugal Economy Minister hails Cristiano Ronaldo as country’s biggest global asset

Portugal’s Economy Minister Manuel Castro Almeida has described Cristiano Ronaldo as an asset whose value extends far beyond football, insisting the superstar has played a major role in promoting the country globally. Speaking amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Ronaldo’s departure from the Portugal camp, Castro Almeida said many people around the world know Portugal because of the 41-year-old.

According to GOAL, the minister compared Ronaldo’s international influence with that of Portugal’s most famous company. He said the country would benefit from continuing to use Ronaldo’s global appeal to strengthen its image and reputation. Castro Almeida declined to take sides in Ronaldo’s dispute with manager Jorge Jesus, saying he was not an expert on the matter. Ronaldo has since returned to Saudi Arabia to resume duties with Al-Nassr.