Cristiano Ronaldo has paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary scout Aurelio Pereira who discovered him and Luis Figo following his passing.
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Article continues below
- Ronaldo pays tribute to former Sporting recruiter
- Discovered Ronaldo and Figo
- Al-Nassr next face Al-Riyadh on Saturday
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The former head of Sporting CP's recruitment, Aurelio Pereira, has passed away at the age of 77. Saddened by the news of the iconic scout's death, Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo shared a heartfelt tribute on social media.
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WHAT CRISTIANO RONALDO SAID
The 40-year-old thanked Pereira for his career as he wrote on Instagram: "One of the great icons of world formation has left us but his legacy will live on forever. Will never stop being grateful for all he has done for me and so many other players. Forever, Lord Aurelius, thank you for everything. Rest in peace."
- AFP
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Pereira played for Sporting CP as a youth player before joining Operario FC and later Benfica. In 1988, he opened the Recruitment and Training Department of Sporting CP to produce a national network of scouts to spot the top talents across Portugal. He was instrumental in discovering Selecao legends like Luis Figo and Ronaldo.
- AFP
WHAT NEXT FOR CRISTIANO RONALDO?
Ronaldo will be back in action in the Saudi Pro League on Saturday as Al-Nassr take on Al-Riyadh at home.