“Beginning of the World’s Players”- Cristiano Ronaldo’s $250 Million Move Sowed the Seeds for Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante’s $535 Million Arrival

Everyone questioned Cristiano Ronaldo when he decided to join the Saudi Arabian side, Al Nassr. The soccer world pointed fingers at the Portuguese superstar as he penned on a $250 million per year contract. The deal made strides in the headlines, making him the highest-paid player of all time.

Even after recently concluding his first season trophyless, the CR7 is adamant about his decision. In fact, he has become a trendsetter, as other players, Karim Benzema and N’golo Kante, have joined Al-Ittihad. And Ronaldo has termed himself as the catalyst for their moves.

Cristiano Ronaldo was a key figure in Karim Benzema and N’golo Kante’s transfer

After seeing Al Nassr signing Ronaldo, other Saudi Arabian clubs are also bringing players from Europe. Recently, their arch-rivals, Al-Ittihad made a massive double swoop for French stars, Benzema and Kante. This was duly noted by Cris, who says he was a key figure in their big-money move.

Recently, he was sitting at a press conference in Madrid, where he spoke about their moves. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner says, “I was sure that my coming to Saudi Arabia would be the beginning of the world’s players here.” The 38-year-old has highlighted the significance of his move, suggesting it paved the way for other stars to arrive in the Gulf country.

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He also suggests it’s just the beginning, as we may get to see other European stars join the high ranks of the Saudi Pro League. Both Benzema and Kante made a $535 million move to the Middle Eastern side. However, Ronaldo is still the highest earner.  Nevertheless, the move will definitely bring a revolutionary change in the Pro League. While other stars agreed on a move to the foreign league, Lionel Messi rejected the billion-dollar offer.

Lionel Messi snubs Saudi Arabia for America

Aside from Benzema and Kante, Messi also had a lucrative offer on the table. The Argentine was set to receive $1.2 billion by Al-Hilal. The offer was further increased by them in the final moments, however, the 35-year-old swiftly rejected the deal. Instead, the World Cup winner will now play in the USA for MLS side Inter Miami.

The David Beckham-owned franchise has signed the former Barcelona for two seasons. His decision has sent the whole soccer world into a frenzy. He was even linked with a return to Camp Nou, who were eager to bring their former legend back. However, things weren’t feasible for FC Barcelona presently to foster any deal.

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What are your thoughts on Messi’s decision? Also, let us know your thought’s about Ronaldo’s impact on Saudi Arabia.