Cristiano Ronaldo has acknowledged that the Saudi Pro League is currently not on par with the Premier League, but he believes it has the potential to become one of the best leagues in the world within five years
Cristiano Ronaldo, who terminated his contract with Manchester United in November and joined Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, has been in impressive form, scoring nine goals in eight league appearances.
Ronaldo applauds Saudi Pro League level of competition
He has stated that the Saudi Pro League may not be close to the Premier League at present. But has the potential to become one of the best leagues in five years.
Ronaldo‘s claim is based on the progress he has observed in the league and he has urged critics to view it differently.
In a recent match, he scored a remarkable freekick from 30 yards to secure a 2-1 win over Abha.
“I feel really good. That’s why I’m here. If I didn’t think so, I wouldn’t be. I’m in a very competitive league. They should look at the Saudi championship differently,” Ronaldo told reporters.
“Obviously, it’s not like the Premier League, I’d be lying if I said it was, but it’s competitive. I’m surprised by the strength. It has good teams, it is balanced, the Arab players are good, the foreigners give quality.
“Possibly it will be, in five to six years’ time. if they continue this plan, the fourth or fifth most competitive league in the world.”
Ronaldo has been included in the latest Portugal squad by their new manager Roberto Martinez.
Despite not playing in one of Europe’s top leagues, Ronaldo is expected to be one of the team’s key players as they prepare for the upcoming 2024 European Championship qualifiers.
