Bruno Alves: “Cagliari? Cristiano Ronaldo convinced me: he told me it's the ideal place to live”

It took six matches to wash away any doubts. This summer, Cagliari brought in a top player on a free transfer. Bruno Alves has already conquered everything in the Sardinian capital, but will always have a special person to thank for helping him make his decision: "Yes, it was Cristiano Ronaldo who told me that Cagliari was the right choice, and that Sardinia was the ideal place to live. Cristiano prompted me to say 'yes' to the club, and he reminded me how important defenders with personality were in Italy. We have played together since our days in the Under 21: Cristiano motivates you, he has great character and a fighting spirit. It's very easy to play with teammates that good. Then, in the meeting I had in London this past June with Giulini, I was drawn to the project and the strong words of our coach, Rastelli. I'm increasingly more convinced that I made the right choice to come here. With my wife Rute and our kids Adriana, Edoardo and Leonardo, we are all happy to be here: having the beach near us makes us feel better. I found the serenity I was looking for." This summer, Bruno became a European champion with Portugal, the second player in Cagliari's history to win the Euros: "Euro 2016? Beautiful memories, an incredible joy. A tremendous group triumphed in the end, I will never forget that title. Joao Mario? An exceptional champion, he has technical ability and a footballing brain, a decisive characteristic." Nené also helped to push the Portuguese giant towards Cagliari: "Yes, it's true, he also encouraged me. He did great things in Portugal. I follow him now at Spezia." @GIANMARCalciO