The Saudi Arabia Football Federation (SAFF) has found a guiding light in the form of Cristiano Ronaldo, whose move to Al Nassr in January sparked a flood of talent and ambition.
The SAFF seems determined to avoid China’s unsuccessful gamble, which appeared promising when Oscar left Chelsea in 2016 but ultimately fell short. Back then, Chinese Super League clubs spent over $390m (approx.) during the transfer window.
A vision for growth: Cristiano Ronaldo has an assessment of the Saudi League’s future
Ronaldo, speaking in June said, “In my opinion, if they continue to do the work that they want to do here for the next five years, I think the Saudi league can be a top-five league in the world. The league is very good, but I think we have many opportunities to still grow.”
Recent reports suggest that Ronaldo has personally assured his national team colleague, Rafael Leao, that the Saudi league will only improve with time.
Rafael Leao on the Saudi League:
“Cristiano told me that there are great players who will come to the Saudi League. Chris told me that the league will be very strong after the deals that will happen. I think it will turn out to be a very interesting League.” pic.twitter.com/XSJ7QYSFxN
— CristianoXtra (@CristianoXtra_) July 4, 2023
Similarly, Leao shares a positive perspective, stating, “Cristiano told me that there are great players who will come to the Saudi League. Chris told me that the league will be very strong after the deals that will happen. I think it will turn out to be a very interesting league.”
One may not rule out the possibility of Rafael Leao joining the league in the near future.
Ambition for global recognition: Saudi Pro League’s quest for top-five status
Saudi Pro League clubs are actively pursuing big-money moves for star players from Europe. Already, they have secured the signings of Karim Benzema from Real Madrid, Ngolo Kante, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Eduard Mendy from Chelsea. The acquisition of Ruben Neves from Wolves further demonstrates their intent to compete at the highest level. At just 26 years old, Neves is an exceptional player entering his prime.
Saudi Pro League clubs have been spending this summer 💰 pic.twitter.com/ApJNrl20VH
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 25, 2023
Furthermore adding to the list of elite players, Croatia midfielder Marcelo Brozovic has joined Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, capitalizing on the riches offered by the Saudi Arabian league.
Numerous other high-profile players have been rumored as potential targets for Saudi clubs, including Hugo Lloris from Tottenham, Riyad Mahrez from Manchester City, and Sergio Ramos from PSG. Furthermore, former England and Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has been appointed as the manager of Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq.
Saudi Pro League XI – If rumours are true 🤯💥 pic.twitter.com/Xb9nXIUIQ2
— IG: jeremiah_b_official (@Jeremiah_b_off) July 4, 2023
This trend significantly emphasizes the league’s ambition to rank among the top five leagues globally. Furthermore, with each marquee signing, the Saudi Pro League not only reinforces its quest but also takes a substantial step forward in establishing itself as a prominent player on the international soccer stage.
Moreover, as the league continues to evolve, fans can eagerly anticipate the prospect of thrilling competition, the presence of remarkable talent, and the emergence of a new soccer legacy right in the heart of the Middle East.