Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League Experiment: Reality Check

Cristiano Ronaldo’s bold prediction that the Saudi Pro League would soon rival its European counterparts in football prominence has been met with stark realities, proving his assertions wrong.

Joining Al-Nassr in late 2022 after parting ways with Manchester United, Ronaldo has been vocal about his belief in the potential of the Gulf league. However, recent developments paint a different picture.

Despite Ronaldo’s optimism, European players in the Saudi Pro League appear unsettled, with notable figures like Karim Benzema and Jordan Henderson expressing dissatisfaction and seeking moves elsewhere. While the league has made significant investments to attract star talent, it has failed to generate substantial interest internationally.

Television viewership figures highlight the league’s struggles, with minimal presence in key markets like the UK and Spain. A mere 5,000 viewers tuned in to a recent match between Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, raising questions about the league’s appeal even with high-profile players on the field.

Even LaLiga president Javier Tebas weighed in, underscoring the league’s limited appeal in comparison to other football competitions. The lack of local attendance further underscores the league’s challenges, with stadiums often appearing sparsely populated.

“In Spain it was sold, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema and all that, for a fantastic sum of €60,000”

Despite these setbacks, the league’s financial backers possess significant resources, suggesting a willingness to sustain the league’s operations despite its current shortcomings.

In conclusion, Ronaldo’s ambitious vision for the Saudi Pro League may have fallen short of expectations, highlighting the enduring dominance of European football and the challenges facing emerging football markets in establishing themselves on the global stage.