The arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo changed the trajectory of the Saudi Pro League. The 5-time Ballon d’Or winner’s arrival was out of the blue. His $500 million decision has opened up a pathway as other major stars like Karim Benzema, Neymar, Sadio Mane, etc. followed in his footsteps to Saudi Arabia. Now, Real Madrid powerhouse Fede Valverde seems to have noticed this trend, revealing how CR7 is crucial for the ‘growth of the league‘.

Despite joining Real Madrid in 2016, the Uruguayan did not play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo owing to his loan move to Deportivo de La Coruna. Yet, it seems Valverde is still closely following the Real Madrid icon. Could a move to the Middle East be on the cards?

Valverde praises CR7 for bringing quality players, stating its ‘great importance’ that will benefit the league

Fede was all praise for the Portuguese icon in a recent interview. He said (via Google Translate), “Cristiano is the one who started all of this (European Exodus). It is important to have players of this type playing so that the Saudi League continues to grow. It is great to rely on players of such great importance, it definitely benefits the league.” Valverde believes that Cristiano Ronaldo greatly improved the Saudi Pro League’s public perception.

Looking back, the Saudi League was not considered a major one before Al Nassr made the eventful signing. However, now even bright young talents who are yet to enter their prime are moving to Saudi for their development. The likes of Ruben Neves, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Otavio, and Gabri Veiga, are yet to hit 30 but still opted to move to the Middle East. This shift in mentality was most likely inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Also, established stars like Roberto Firmino, N’Golo Kante, and Jordan Henderson have further helped to enhance the league’s reputation. Especially, considering that these stars moved from the English Premier League, described as the world’s best. Hence, Fede Valverde does have a point regarding Cristiano Ronaldo’s role in the league’s growth. Yet, his influence goes much beyond that.

How Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer helped the SPL

Since, its inception in 1976, the SPL never had global broadcasters. That is, until now, as 36 global broadcasters have agreed to telecast the Saudi Pro League. Also, match attendance has increased significantly, and getting a ticket for an Al Nassr game is not a cakewalk. The increased popularity of soccer is reflected even on social media as Al Nassr’s follower count went from 853k to 13 million after signing Cristiano Ronaldo. Currently, the count is at 22.8 million.

Read More: “He Came To Write History”- Al Nassr Pays Tribute To Cristiano Ronaldo For Completing an Year at the Club

Cristiano Ronaldo is even influencing things outside the pitch. His signing has significantly helped the tourism industry in the country as millions flock to see the icon play. Previously, the Al Nassr star had said that this league can be a top 5 league in the world. Everybody was surprised then, but considering the rapid progress, it certainly looks like a possibility.

Do you agree with Fede Valverde’s comments? Tell us below.

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