Cristiano Ronaldo, the former Real Madrid star, continues to spark debates with his controversial statements about football leagues. Since his unexpected departure from Ligue 1 and subsequent move to Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, the Portuguese icon has become a focal point of both praise and criticism. Most recently, Adil Rami, the 2018 World Cup winner with France, shared his candid thoughts about the 39-year-old forward during a Twitch broadcast.
Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League Impact
Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has embraced his role as a football ambassador for Saudi Arabia. His influence has brought global attention to the league, attracting notable players like Karim Benzema, Roberto Firmino, Neymar, and N'Golo Kanté. With the league gaining prominence, Ronaldo has repeatedly voiced his belief that the Saudi Pro League is superior to Ligue 1, a statement that has not gone unnoticed.
At the 2024 Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, where Ronaldo was named the Middle East’s Player of the Year, he reiterated his opinion, drawing strong reactions from football fans and professionals alike.
Adil Rami's Response
Adil Rami, a retired French international, didn’t hold back when responding to Ronaldo's comments. Despite his admiration for Ronaldo, Rami criticized the player for downplaying the quality of Ligue 1.
“If Ronaldo had played in Ligue 1 for the past two years, he wouldn’t have stood out,” Rami said. “Do you want me to show you the defenders in Saudi Arabia? Just because he had an amazing career doesn’t mean everything he says is the truth. Let him try playing against teams like Monaco, Lille, or Marseille. Ligue 1 has some of the toughest defenders in the world.”
A Stinging Critique
Rami went further, dismissing the level of play in Saudi Arabia. “The players in the Saudi league are out of shape. They eat fast food every day! Let them come to Ligue 1 and see how long they last,” he remarked. Rami also highlighted Ligue 1's reputation for producing world-class talent and its high level of competition.
Ronaldo’s Next Move
While Ronaldo’s comments have fueled debates, his future in the Saudi Pro League remains uncertain. With his contract at Al Nassr nearing its end, speculation is rife that he might leave in January for a club where he can chase more trophies and inch closer to his goal of 1,000 career goals.
Whether Ronaldo stays or moves on, one thing is clear: his legacy continues to stir conversations in the football world.