Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi League ‘remark’ draws SCORN from Portuguese coach in France 

Ronaldo's statement came out when rumors of players wanting to leave surfaced.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi League ‘remark’ draws SCORN from Portuguese coach in France 

Cristiano Ronaldo has been playing for Al Nassr since January 2023. (Image via Goal)

A few days ago, Cristiano Ronaldo made an outrageous statement, claiming the Saudi Pro League was better and much more competitive than Ligue 1. Many fans slammed the Portuguese, but now he faces flak from his colleagues. 

Former French footballer, Laure Boulleau slammed Ronaldo, claiming his ego had a part in making the statement. She claimed Ronaldo was slamming the French league only because his rival, Lionel Messi, played in the league. 

YouTube video
I was really surprised by his communication. Why attack Ligue 1? Because Lionel Messi played here? I asked myself why he mentioned Ligue 1 and not other leagues. I already think it's out of his league to say that.
Laure Boulleau on Cristiano Ronaldo

Paulo Fonesca, the former Roma and Porto, publicly disagreed with his countryman as well. He denounced Ronaldo’s statement but believes he is wasting his time by answering questions regarding the statement. Fonseca currently coaches LOSC Lillie, which participates in Ligue 1.  

FS Video
I don't think it's good what he said. I don't want to make a comparison. If he feels happy in Saudi Arabia, I'm happy for him. There are things that don't deserve to be answered. I'm wasting my time answering them. These statements are part of it. I think intelligent people will understand why he made this statement.
Paulo Fonesca on Cristiano Ronaldo

Romelu Lukaku backs up Ronaldo, says he finds potential in the SPL 

While many people criticized Cristiano Ronaldo, he found the backing of Romelu Lukaku regarding the league. Despite refusing to sign for Saudi clubs twice in the past, he claims he can see the league becoming one of the best in the world. 

Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku has admitted his plans to join the Saudi Pro League. (Image via Goal)
In the next two years I see this league becoming one of the best in the world, if not the best. The clubs make a lot of efforts to bring the big players here. As a result, the teams and the footballing qualities are improving significantly. 
Romelu Lukaku on the potential of the Saudi League

When asked if he would go to Saudi Arabia in the future, Lukaku confirmed his plans to join the SPL. The forward is currently at Roma on loan from Chelsea. The Belgian has played 26 matches for the club, scoring 15 goals in all tournaments. He is still contracted to Chelsea, with his contract running till the summer of 2026. 

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