Only those who have never played in Saudi Arabia, who don’t understand football at all, say this league isn’t among the world’s top five,” said Cristiano Ronaldo, making his stance crystal clear.
Almost two years ago, Ronaldo predicted that the Saudi Pro League would rise to be one of the top five leagues in the world. Now, he believes that moment has arrived. According to the Portuguese superstar, the league has already earned its place among the elite. And for those who disagree? Ronaldo says they simply don’t know what they’re talking about.
Having recently renewed his contract with Al Nassr for two more years, Ronaldo will continue at the club well past his 40th birthday. Initially joining in 2023, the veteran forward has committed his future to both the club and the broader football project in Saudi Arabia.
Following the renewal, Ronaldo appeared in a video shared by Al Nassr on social media, where he spoke about his career, the growth of Saudi football, and his ambitions. He has long praised the league—once even ranking it above France’s Ligue 1.
This time, Ronaldo placed the Saudi Pro League among the world’s very best.
“Of course, we’re still improving as a league,” he said. “But I truly believe we are already among the top five leagues in the world right now. I still believe we will keep improving. We have time, and we’ve already shown in the last two years that this league is heading in the right direction.”
“I’m very happy because I know this league is extremely competitive. Only those who have never played in Saudi Arabia, who don’t understand football at all, say this league isn’t among the world’s top five. I 100 percent believe in what I’m saying, and those who play here know exactly what I mean.”
Ronaldo’s vision goes beyond just league success—he has high hopes for Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 World Cup.
“This is why I stayed—because I believe in this project. Not just for the next two years, but all the way through to the 2034 World Cup, which will be held in Saudi Arabia. I believe it will be the most beautiful World Cup ever.”
Since joining Al Nassr from Manchester United in 2023, Ronaldo has scored 99 goals in 111 appearances across all competitions. Despite not winning a trophy yet, he remains optimistic.
“My goal has always been to win something important with Al Nassr. I still believe in that goal. I extended my contract because I believe I’ll be a champion in Saudi Arabia.”
Before the renewal, speculation swirled about Ronaldo potentially joining other clubs. Even FIFA President Gianni Infantino suggested he could feature in the Club World Cup.
Ronaldo confirmed that he did receive offers but turned them down, prioritizing rest and preparation.
“I received some offers to play in the Club World Cup,” he admitted. “But to me, it wasn’t important. I felt it was more crucial to rest and prepare properly because next season will be long, especially with the World Cup at the end.”
“I want to be ready not just for Al Nassr, but also for my national team. That’s why I decided that after playing the final Nations League match, I wouldn’t listen to anything else.”
