Cristiano Ronaldo has come out swinging at those who continue to dismiss the Saudi Pro League, insisting the competition is far stronger than many give it credit for.
The Portuguese icon netted a superb hat-trick in Al-Nassr’s 4-0 friendly win over Rio Ave on Thursday night, before turning his attention to a growing chorus of sceptics. Speaking after the match, Ronaldo defended both the league’s quality and the decision of compatriot João Félix to swap Chelsea for Riyadh in a £26 million move earlier this month.
Félix, who had the option to rejoin boyhood club Benfica, instead opted for Al-Nassr a choice some in Portugal have questioned. Ronaldo, however, was quick to praise the forward’s ambition and downplay suggestions he had personally persuaded him.
“Stealing is bad form,” he said. “Nobody has stolen anything from Benfica. Everyone knows João he’s hugely talented and will help us a lot in what is a very competitive Saudi league.
“You don’t see it because you’re not here, but just look at the stars we have. It was a better option for him than the Portuguese league, even without Champions League football. It was a wise decision.
“Did I call him to convince him? No. That’s not my jobI train and I play. Journalists made that up.”
Ronaldo’s words come after a blistering start to pre-season, with four goals in three appearances as he chases his first Saudi Pro League title since leaving Manchester United in 2022. The 40-year-old closed last season in fine style, helping Portugal lift the Nations League, and shows no sign of slowing down despite his advancing years.
With the influx of high-profile arrivals in recent seasons from Karim Benzema to Neymar the Saudi Pro League continues to draw global attention. And if Ronaldo’s conviction is anything to go by, he’s determined to ensure the football world takes it seriously.
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