“I’m Not Arrogant” – Cristiano Ronaldo Defends His Praise For Saudi Arabia at Globe Soccer Awards

“The Saudi league is better than MLS“, were the stunning words from Cristiano Ronaldo‘s mouth last year. While that was perceived as just initial hype, that certainly doesn’t seem to be the case now. Names like Neymar, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mane followed the Portuguese icon on his Middle Eastern journey, increasing the stardom of the league. CR7 now took a step further by appreciating Saudi, which was ‘truly deserving‘ of his services.

Cristiano Ronaldo also called the Roshn Saudi League better than France’s Ligue 1. While the confidence is currently high of the soccer legend, he has made an impact in the nation drawing many more eyeballs and revenue.

Cristiano Ronaldo doesn’t shy away from laying down his ‘step by step’ vision for ‘the beautiful game’ in Saudi

Speaking at the Globe Soccer Awards, Cristiano Ronaldo said, “I am not arrogant, but the future is changing and the whole world is changing, and I decided to give my passion to this country. Saudi Arabia is a wonderful country and truly deserves it.” Since CR7’s arrival, RSL clubs have reportedly spent $957 million in the last window, only next to the English Premier League. However, the claim of the RSL to be better than Ligue 1 was hindered by Opta.

Its power rankings featured only 5 Saudi clubs in a list of 24 clubs from both Ligue 1 and RSL’s topflight. Cristiano Ronaldo made bigger claims about the league. He stated, “I believe they are going to be in the top three or four [leagues] in the world, and, step by step, we are going to reach that.” Without a doubt, he is setting up a soccer empire, and it’s proving to be an example to every developing and already-established soccer nation out there.

CR7 bags three major awards for his triumphs in Saudi

The player expressed that he made the right decision to move to Saudi Arabia and try out a new country. But he also backed it with performances. Cristiano Ronaldo won three accolades at the Globe Soccer Awards. The 38-year-old won the Fans’ Favorite Player, the Best Middle East Player, and the Maradona Award for scoring 54 goals in 2023.

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He is currently the top scorer in the league with 20 goals. He has played a vital role in Al Nassr coming 2nd on the league table. Ultimately, CR7 will aim to take the club to their first AFC Champions League title after being undefeated in the group stage.

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