In a surprising turn of events, Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned football icon, has declared that the Saudi Pro League surpasses Major League Soccer (MLS) in terms of quality. This statement comes in the wake of Lionel Messi's high-profile move to MLS, joining Inter Miami. Ronaldo's remarks have stirred up a global conversation about the comparative merits of these two leagues.
Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, made these comments following his team's 5-0 loss to La Liga's Celta Vigo in Portugal. The Portuguese superstar was unequivocal in his assessment, stating, "The Saudi league is better than MLS." He further credited himself for paving the way for other players to join the Saudi league, asserting, "I opened the way to the Saudi league and now all the players are coming here."
Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr in December was a landmark event for the Saudi Pro League. The deal, reportedly worth more than $200 million per season, marked the arrival of one of the world's most celebrated footballers in Saudi Arabia. Since Ronaldo's move, several other high-profile players, including Karim Benzema, Marcelo Brozovic, N'Golo Kante, and Roberto Firmino, have followed suit, bolstering the league's international reputation.
However, Ronaldo's comments have sparked a debate about the concept of "sportswashing," a term used to describe the practice of countries using sports to improve their international image. Saudi Arabia has been accused of sportswashing in the past, with its ventures into golf, Formula 1, and now football.
Despite the controversy, Ronaldo, at 38, seems content with his decision to play in Saudi Arabia. He dismissed the idea of returning to Europe, stating, "I'm 100% sure I won't return to any European club." He went on to critique the quality of European football, with the exception of the Premier League, which he believes maintains a high standard.
Ronaldo's comments come at a time when Lionel Messi, often considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, has just been introduced at Inter Miami. Messi's arrival in MLS is seen as a significant milestone for the league, despite the fact that he is also in the twilight of his career at 36. Messi is set to make his playing debut with Inter Miami against Mexican side Cruz Azul on Friday.
Ronaldo's bold assertion has certainly stirred the pot in the world of football, prompting fans and pundits alike to reassess their perceptions of these two leagues. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Ronaldo's influence on the game remains as potent as ever, both on and off the pitch.
