“I think we are already in the Top 5. Those who say that the Saudi Pro League is not one of the five best championships know nothing about football. »»
Cristiano Ronaldo plays his role as ambassador for Saudi Arabia. Last month, when extending his contract in Al-Nassr until 2027, the Portuguese striker reiterated all the good he thought of the kingdom and his league, which he joined in January 2023.
An opinion that is not shared by another SPL star, Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian winger, who has been playing in Al-Ahli for two years, considers that the Saudi championship is not yet at the level of the European “Big Five” (Premier League, Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1). “No, I think the five major European championships are one step ahead”says the 34 -year -old, quoted by the Spanish daily Marca.
“It is only after we can start competing with others, we are not so far awayhe explains. Our goal is not to be the best league in the world now, but in the long term. Those who arrived, like me, are at the start of this adventure. We are like pioneers. »» The former Manchester City attacking midfielder already sees significant progress in Saudi football.
Riyad Mahrez impressed by Cristiano Ronaldo
“We help strengthen the League and, sincerely, during the two seasons I passed here, I noticed an evolution in clubs, coaches, tactical systems and general organization. They try to achieve their goals and I think they will succeed. Their will is great ”he says, taking care not to scratch the “CR7” icon, five-time winner of the Ballon d'Or.
“He is incredibly strong and he deserves all the recognition he receiveshe admires. Even at 40, look at how it moves and how it starts, it's impressive. It's really extraordinary. »» And Riyad Mahrez to entrust that he would very much like to see Lionel Messi, currently at Inter Miami, to sign in Saudi Arabia:
“It's our childhood … as footballers, we looked at him a lot. This is our model. It would be really exceptional to play with him. He would play in 10 and I on the right, we would alternate from time to time. »»
