Saudi Arabia didn’t appear to be a prime destination for soccer until Cristiano Ronaldo made the move. Since the Portuguese superstar’s transfer to Al Nassr, there has been a surge in European stars being enticed by Middle Eastern soccer giants. But despite the financial incentives, many are unimpressed with the prospect of playing in a foreign league outside of Europe, including a $95,240,000 star who bluntly turned down CR7’s $500 million path.
Even after having a chat with Cristiano Ronaldo himself about the allure of the Roshn Saudi League, the star has preferred to not pursue the lucrative Saudi deal.
$95,240,000 star bluntly rejects Ronaldo’s $500 path to Al Nassr
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While an exodus of players has moved to the Saudi Pro League, a few have coldly rejected the offer. Among the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi, AC Milan star Rafael Leao has become the latest addition to that list. Apparently, Ronaldo’s Portuguese national teammate doesn’t like the idea of playing in the Middle East.
As compiled by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Leao said, “Saudi League proposals? For me, Champions League is worth more than €10m salary.” The winger’s words pretty much sum up his thoughts on playing in the Gulf country. Already eager to win the prestigious Champions League, Leao said, “I still haven’t achieved great results to accept go to that league.”
He also revealed why he signed a new deal with Milan, “I’m focused on doing great things with AC Milan. That’s why I signed new deal few months ago”. One thing is for sure, Leao will not move to Saudi anytime soon, keeping in mind his long-term ambitions with the Italian giants. Perhaps towards the latter stages of his career, he might contemplate following Ronaldo’s path.
Rafa Leão: “Saudi League proposals? For me, Champions League is worth more than €10m salary”. 🔴⚫️🇵🇹
“I still haven't achieved great results to accept go to that league”, told GQ.
“I’m focused on doing great things with AC Milan. That’s why I signed new deal few months ago”. pic.twitter.com/CINCxosALp
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 25, 2023
Certainly, it is quite an interesting take from Leao about the SPL, as the player even had a tête-à-tête with his Portugal skipper about the Middle East.
Rafael Leao had a chat with Cristiano Ronaldo
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Earlier, Leao had a chat with Cristiano Ronaldo about the SPL. Interestingly, the 24-year-old revealed what the veteran had to say, “Cristiano told me that there are great players who will come to the Saudi League. Cris told me that the league will be very strong after the deals that will happen. I think it will turn out to be a very interesting League.”
Rafael Leao on the Saudi League:
“Cristiano told me that there are great players who will come to the Saudi League. Chris told me that the league will be very strong after the deals that will happen. I think it will turn out to be a very interesting League.” pic.twitter.com/MGLPxd7G5c
— The CR7 Timeline. (@TimelineCR7) July 4, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Cristiano Ronaldo had nothing but praise to offer about the Roshn League. In all likelihood, Leao inquired about it after receiving a few calls from Ronaldo’s domestic rivals. But for now, he has rejected the call and is focused on AC Milan. Let’s see what the future holds for him.
Watch this story: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Make a Huge Assist for Esports Space