Portuguese players were given access to English football by Cristiano Ronaldo, according to Hull City defender Ruben Vinagre.
Vinagre remarked this while acknowledging that Ronaldo’s impact in the Premier League was crucial to his professional development.
The 24-year-old was only a toddler at the time when Ronaldo opted to leave Sporting CP for Manchester United in 2003, when he was 18 years old.
“I grew up watching Ronaldo play for Manchester (United) and always dreamed of playing in England,” the player said. Vinagre stated, according to The Yorkshire Post, “Of course I wanted to go there and prove myself when Wolves presented the opportunity.
“Ronaldo gave Portuguese players access to English football. Portuguese players are now prevalent in the Premier League and the Championship.
During his six-year stay with the Red Devils, Ronaldo solidified his position as one of the top players in the Premier League.
In 292 appearances across all leagues and competitions, he scored 118 goals and helped Man United win nine major championships.
The Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year were also won by the Al-Nassr captain in 2008.
