On Saturday, the renowned football player Cristiano Ronaldo supported the Saudi Pro League, comparing it to Ligue 1 in terms of competition. “The Saudi league is not worse than Ligue 1,” the Portuguese great remarked during a speech at the Globe Soccer Awards 2023. Compared to Ligue 1, the Saudi Pro League is more competitive.” “After spending a year there, I can state that. We have already surpassed the French league,” Ronaldo was cited by Goal.com. It would take some time for the Saudi league to reach the pinnacle as the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who currently plays at Al Nassr, noted.
“I’m thrilled to be at Al Nassr; this was a wise decision. Saudi Arabia is going through a lengthy process, but they will eventually reach the highest levels. The Saudi Pro League is going to rank in the top three leagues globally, in my opinion. Saudi people will be pleased,” he continued. The 38-year-old forward scored 44 goals in 50 games since joining the Saudi side Al Nassr in January 2023. The Portuguese player has made 18 appearances and scored 20 goals for the Riyadh-based team in the current Saudi Pro League season. In the 2023–24 season, Ronaldo also contributed nine assists for Al Nassr.
The Portuguese sensation had previously left Juventus in 2021 to rejoin his childhood team, Manchester United. However, his time in England was short-lived after he had attacked United coach Erik Ten Hag in a contentious interview with Piers Morgan. Ten Hag’s contract was terminated by United when Ronaldo alleged that the Portuguese player was not treated with respect by Ten Hag. CR7 played 54 games and netted 27 goals during his second stint at United.
