Title: Cristiano Ronaldo Claims Saudi Professional League Superior to Major League Soccer
Subtitle: Ronaldo’s comments spark debate about the quality of international leagues
Date: [Current Date]
By [Author Name]
Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned Portuguese footballer who currently plays for Al Nassr in the Saudi Professional League, recently shared his belief that the Saudi league is superior to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. The statement was made during a media interaction after his team’s 5-0 defeat against Celta Vigo, a La Liga club.
When asked about the possibility of joining Lionel Messi in MLS, Ronaldo responded with a firm “No,” stating, “I think that Arabia is a much better league than the United States.”
Ronaldo, considered one of the highest-paid players globally, earns a staggering £175 million ($217.4 million) annually. Sources close to Al Nassr have revealed that the club contributes only a tenth of Ronaldo’s wage, with the remaining amount covered by the Saudi state.
In contrast, Messi recently signed a deal with Inter Miami until 2025, with an option to extend his stay through the 2026 season. While his exact salary is undisclosed, it is estimated to be around $50-60 million per year, including the value of his equity in the franchise.
These comments by Ronaldo have sparked a lively debate about the quality of various international football leagues. Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber, however, seems unfazed by the growing influence of the Saudi Professional League, stating on Sunday that he is “not threatened” by it.
In a detailed analysis by The Athletic, the comments by Ronaldo were seen as a predictable response, considering his affiliation with the Saudi league. The article highlights Ronaldo’s illustrious career alongside Messi in dominating European club football for over a decade. The two players have consistently dominated the Ballon d’Or trophy, with Ronaldo claiming his fifth in 2017, while Messi has won seven, and potentially an eighth.
While their legacies will mainly be associated with their performances in Europe and on the international stage, both players have decided to extend their career aspirations by joining ambitious leagues outside of Europe. Ronaldo was the first of many superstars to play in Saudi Arabia, while Messi aims to increase soccer interest in the United States, much like the impact Pelé made before him.
Garber, in a recent discussion, expressed confidence that MLS would not be threatened by the Saudi Pro League’s growing investment in global football. He cited the history of skepticism towards the league when it was developing, and how it eventually gained respect and recognition worldwide. Garber views this as an opportunity to spread the power and influence of professional football beyond Europe.
Critics argue that the Saudi Professional League’s heavy reliance on star players and instant growth resembles the Chinese Super League, which experienced a decline after a similar approach. Additionally, Ronaldo’s past legal controversy related to an alleged sexual assault in Las Vegas back in 2009 may have influenced his point of view about the United States.
Despite differing opinions, it is undeniable that Ronaldo and Messi’s moves to prestigious leagues abroad have added an exciting twist to their storied careers. The ongoing debate about the quality of leagues worldwide continues, with fans eagerly watching the performance of these football legends in their new environments.
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(Photo: Mohammed Saad / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)