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Soccer is a global sport. Confining it to a region wastes the potential to accomplish its purpose. Cristiano Ronaldo broke this barrier by moving to Saudi Arabia for the love of the sport. There is a growing misconception that players who move out of Europe are only doing so because they are no longer at their best. People going to Saudi may have many reasons, but one internationally active player has now revealed a purpose different from other players.

It was for the past three decades people have chosen the USA to continue the fourth quadrant of their careers. But it has come to the point of enlightenment that the sport offers much more than a regional identity. A secure and calm platform is now the choice of players rather than a reputation that is merely imaginary.

Ex-La Liga star’s courtesy to the fans regarding Saudi

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In the age of indifference, one Belgian player felt responsible for addressing the fans regarding his move to the Saudi Pro League. The 30-year-old former Atletico Madrid player took a page out of the book of Ronaldo. Following his move to Al-Shabab FC, Yannick Carrasco clarified to the media that he went there mainly for a peaceful and secure career ahead.

At the press conference, as reported by RTFB, Carrasco said, “I’m 30 years old, and this was the last year of my contract in Madrid. I had a concrete offer, but it was the only one. I opted for security. Was it a financial choice? Everything goes together: being a footballer is a profession. You have to think twice. If there’s an injury, it can become difficult, especially as we play so many matches.”

After two stints with Atletico, Carrasco finally decided to get precautious regarding his physical and mental health. Reaching 30 can take a toll on your fitness and performance, which the Belgian thought would not keep him at peace.

The Belgian number 11 mentioned that the chances of injuries are high as he is getting old and feels in the latter half now. After an unsuccessful campaign at the 2022 World Cup for the Red Devils, Carrasco managed to score and assist once in the ongoing 2024 Euro Qualifiers. However, Carrasco’s stance on choosing Saudi was clear, and it was especially inspired by CR7 and his family as well.

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Carrasco cites Cristiano Ronaldo and family as an example

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About the ongoing talk about human rights in Saudi, Carrasco has made it clear that the country is very supportive of the sport and the people. He suggested that people themselves can come and inspect instead of listening to all the rumors. The $26,676,625 worth (€25 million) shrugged off the entire matter, stating that even Ronaldo and his family live happily without any problems.

He further went on to call it a beautiful country, stating, “I see that Cristiano Ronaldo and his wife live a normal life there. So do the other players. I’ve been there, I’ve seen what women are like there, how people walk around. Honestly, it’s a beautiful country.”

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Even though Carrasco confessed to slowing down, he still feels he has the acumen to help the younger players. He also mentioned that going to another league with not impact his game for the national team. Carrasco also feels that no one can be sure of holding their place in the squad, but that doesn’t bother him. Although a very active member of the national team, the winger will try to stay connected to his potential and not let the distance affect him.

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