"No different to European clubs" - Fernando Santos hails Cristiano Ronaldo over 'incredible' move to Saudi Arabia amid Ligue 1 comments backlash

Former Portugal coach Fernando Santos has stated that Cristiano Ronaldo secured his future by moving to the Saudi Pro League in 2022. He believes that the Portuguese superstar moving to Al Nassr was not worse than joining any other European side.

Speaking to Egyptian Channel 1 (via OJogo), Santos stated that Ronaldo is a world-class player and knew what he was doing by moving to the Middle East. He claimed that the former Manchester United star joined Al Nassr for the money they were offering and said:

"Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr is an incredible decision, but it is a unique experience, and Al Nassr is no different to European clubs. The atmosphere in Saudi football is wonderful. Cristiano is a world-class player and was looking to secure his future."

Ronaldo commented on the Saudi Pro League recently and claimed that the league is better than Ligue 1. He said:

"The Saudi Pro League is better than Ligue 1, of course. I'm not saying that because I play here. I don't care what people think about it. Players should come here and they will see quickly. Just try to do sprints at 38, 39, 40 degrees...Come and you will see. If you don't believe me, come. In France, they only have PSG, everyone else is finished. Nobody can beat them because they have the most money and the best players."

Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in 2022 after his contract at Manchester United was terminated. He is in the final months of his contract and has admitted that he wants to remain at the club until he calls time on his career.

---

Neymar agrees with Cristiano Ronaldo on Saudi Pro League

Neymar also spoke about Cristiano Ronaldo's comments on the Saudi Pro League and agreed with the latter's opinion. He believes that the Middle Eastern league is getting better and told CNN Sports:

"I agree with him. Nowadays, I believe the Saudi Pro League is above Ligue 1. The level of the Saudi Pro League is rising, the players are also better. Ligue 1 still has its strengths. It is a very high-level championship. I know it very well."

Neymar moved to Al Hilal from PSG in 2023 but suffered an ACL injury soon after his debut, keeping him out for the first season at the club. He returned earlier this season but suffered another injury.