Al-Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo has kick-started a storm with his statement. During the Globe Soccer Award ceremony in Dubai, the Portuguese star claimed that Saudi League is superior to France’s Ligue 1. However, the repercussions of this bold claim has extended across the French nation, as LOSC Lille’s boss has now weighed in on the matter.
Lille’s headman has offered a surprisingly cool response to Ronald’s declaration.
“I’m happy for him”: Lille boss shrugs Ronaldo’s statement
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Paulo Fonseca, LOSC Lille’s head coach and Ronaldo’s compatriot, refused to draw any comparisons between the leagues. He dismissed the controversial remarks made by Al-Nassr’s talisman, while declaring that certain things are ‘not worth his time.’ Speaking ahead of Lille’s crucial French Cup knockout tie against Racing CFF, Fonseca offered a succinct response, stating, “If he feels happy in Saudi Arabia, I’m happy for him. There are some things that aren’t worth my time to respond to.”
It was, according to Fonseca, a self-serving proclamation that required no answers. But the LOSC boss wasn’t done with the matter yet, as he concluded with a cryptic statement. “These statements are one of them. I think intelligent people will understand why he made that statement,” Fonseca added. The Portuguese manager indicated his desire to stay focused on the task at hand, rather than indulging in a war of words.
This was a calculated jab by Lille boss, leaving audience to ponder the motivations behind Ronaldo’s bold claims. Was it a true belief in the quality of Saudi Pro League, or a strategic marketing maneuver to strengthen his or Saudi League’s image? The truth is, comparing these two leagues is similar to comparing apples and oranges. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, and majorly its unique appeal.
Ligue 1 fires back at Ronaldo
In response to Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial claims, Ligue 1’s official X account took a jab at the Al-Nassr star. They posted a photo of Kylian Mbappe holding Cristiano Ronaldo’s face from a friendly match between PSG and Riyadh All-Stars. It was held last year, where PSG emerged victorious with a 5-4 scoreline. The image served as a counter attack to Ronaldo’s bold assertions.
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) January 19, 2024
Ligue 1 may not boast the financial muscle of its Saudi counterpart, but its history and ability to produce world-class talent cannot be easily dismissed. Fonseca’s ‘intelligent’ remarks are a reminder of the fact that true greatness isn’t measured by the paycheck size, but the history and legacy of the league. Brace yourself for an emerging soccer debate, as more drama will be unfolded in coming days, ignited by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo!
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