Cristiano Ronaldo shares heartfelt message after the passing of the scout who discovered him

Cristiano Ronaldo has gone through one of the most impressive evolutions in modern soccer. He started as a skilled left winger. Even after reaching the top of world soccer, Cristiano has never forgotten his roots speaking often with pride about his time at Sporting Clube de Portugal, where his journey to greatness began. He also remembers the scout who first believed in him and recently passed away. Ronaldo sent him a heartfelt message.

“One of the great symbols of world football has left us, but his legacy will live on forever. I will never stop being grateful for everything he did for me and so many other players. So long, Mr. Aurelio, thank you for everything. Rest in peace,” stated Cristiano Ronaldo on his Instagram account.

Aurelio Pereira, the man who discovered Cristiano Ronaldo, is one of the most important figures in the history of Portuguese soccer. His influence goes far beyond that. In fact, Sporting Lisbon confirmed that 10 players from Portugal’s UEFA Euro 2016 championship squad came through his scouting. That stat alone shows the scale of his impact on the national team.

He made a lasting impact on Portuguese soccer as also discovered Luis Figo and Paulo Futre, two legends who helped define a generation. Because of his contributions, the city of Lisbon awarded him the Medal of Sporting Merit. Later, in 2018, UEFA honored him with the Order of Merit.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts after the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A1 match between Scotland and Portugal at on October 15, 2024 in Glasgow, Scotland.

In 2016, Aurelio spoke with MARCA and shared touching words about Cristiano Ronaldo. He said, “I remember a fantastic boy who defied his own destiny every day. With the will and inner strength he had, it was impossible for him not to achieve his dream. You could already see that at the age of 12. We always expect the best from Cristiano. He always gives the answer his team needs.”

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How Cristiano Ronaldo’s career took off after being discovered by Aurelio Pereira?

Cristiano Ronaldo began his soccer journey at just seven years old. He joined Clube de Futebol de Andorinha, a team in Portugal’s first regional division. His father worked there as a kit man, which helped spark Cristiano’s passion for the game.

After showing promise, he moved to Clube Desportivo Nacional, where he played for two years. Then, he went for a three-day trial with Sporting Lisbon. During that trial, scout Aurelio Pereira spotted his raw talent. As a result, he joined the club’s training academy and left Madeira Island for Lisbon at the age of 12.

At Sporting Lisbon, he impressed coaches and teammates with his skill and determination. Cristiano Ronaldo progressed quickly through the youth system and earned his first-team debut in 2002 at just 17. His first appearance came in a Champions League match against Inter Milan. Thanks to his strong performances, several top clubs took notice. Teams like FC Barcelona, Arsenal, and Liverpool showed interest in signing him.

However, everything changed after a friendly against Manchester United on August 6, 2003. Cristiano dominated that match and caught the attention of Sir Alex Ferguson. The legendary coach moved quickly to bring him to Old Trafford. From that point on, his career shifted into a new gear. He began building one of the most iconic legacies in soccer history.