Cristiano Ronaldo‘s decision to play in Saudi Arabia was unexpected yet somewhat anticipated. Having reached beyond his prime, a move to Al Nassr just a couple of years before turning 40 seemed like a reasonable call. While many believe the Saudi Arabian club will be his final destination to bid farewell to his remarkable career, the Portuguese superstar may ultimately ‘end up in the United States’ and play for LAFC.
But would he be willing to make that switch, contradicting his previous statement, “Saudi League is better than MLS”? Luis Mateus, owner of the American club Rockford Raptors, has expressed his desire to see CR7 in America. In one of the interviews, as compiled by @MousaQi on X, the Portuguese owner said, “I would like Cristiano Ronaldo to come to the United States. I have always said that Ronaldo will end up in the United States and I saw him settle here in Portugal, but I hope he does.”
Even though Mateus reckons that Ronaldo might end his career in his beloved nation, deep down he believes that the day might come when the 39-year-old ends up in the US. In fact, as the owner of the former USISL Pro League side, he knows the best place for the legendary striker to maximize his potential in the MLS: “If Ronaldo comes to Boston or goes to Los Angeles, the MLS will do something incredible.” Ending the conversation, Matues said, “I’ve always loved Ronaldo.”
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This is certainly quite an interesting take from the Rockford Raptors boss. Going to Boston or Los Angeles means Ronaldo can have a choice to make between the New England Revolution or LAFC. However, it’s unlikely that the former Madrid man will consider Luis Mateus’ request as it would come at the cost of eating his own words.
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Cristiano Ronaldo would need to swallow his pride before making a potential MLS move
“The Saudi league is better than MLS. I opened the way to the Saudi league, and now all the players are coming here.” These were the words from Ronaldo in 2023 July when asked if he would leave Saudi to come to play in MLS. He certainly has opened a pathway for the world’s attention to turn to the Middle East. An influx of stars (Sadio Mane, Benzema, Ruben Neves, Malcom, and Neymar) opted to follow in Ronaldo’s footsteps to try their luck in Saudi Arabia. Ronaldo had clearly stated his stance and said that he would not return to any European club,” the door is completely closed.”
After admitting it on several occasions, it would be awkward for him to retract his current stance on the US-based league. On the other hand, the decision could also work in his favor, considering that MLS fans would likely welcome him with open arms.
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Ronaldo potentially moving to Major League Soccer would add him to the list of legendary players who have graced the renowned league. Furthermore, he would have the opportunity to reignite his passionate long-term rivalry with none other than Lionel Messi. The two undisputed GOATs would once again have the chance to set the stage on fire, just like the good old days in La Liga.
Nevertheless, for now, the chances of Ronaldo joining any MLS side like LAFC are slim, as he remains committed to the Saudi Arabian project. But who knows what the future has in store!