Ronaldo says Saudi Pro League 'better than MLS', denies Europe return
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The 38-year-old Portuguese says more top players will join the Saudi Pro League.
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Cristiano Ronaldo arrives ahead of a Saudi Pro League football match (AFP)
Al Nassr's Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo considered that the Saudi Pro League "is better" than the US Major League Soccer, pointing out that he has no intention to play in the United States or return to Europe.
"The Saudi league is better than MLS," Ronaldo answered after he was asked whether he would consider a move to the MLS like his longtime rival, Argentina's Lionel Messi, who signed a deal with Inter Miami till 2025.
Talking to the media after Al-Nassr's 5-0 defeat during a friendly match to Celta Vigo, the 38-year-old said, "I opened the way to the Saudi league, and now all the players are coming here."
"In one year, more top players will come," the 38-year-old predicted.
It is noteworthy that a number of players joined Ronaldo in signing contracts with Saudi Pro League teams, such as Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante, who both joined Saudi champions Al-Ittihad.
"I’m 100% sure I won’t return to any European club. I’m 38 years old," he made it clear, as quoted by ESPN.
According to Ronaldo, "European football has lost a lot of quality. The only valid one and still doing good is the (English) Premier League. They’re way ahead of all the other leagues."
It is noteworthy that following his exit from Manchester United, the Portuguese joined Al Nassr in December 2022 on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
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