“This is my dream” - Cristiano Ronaldo shares how he wants to ‘help’ Saudi Pro League

Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed his desire to help football flourish in Saudi Arabia in the coming years. The Portuguese superstar arrived in the country in December 2022 after parting ways with Manchester United.

CR7 joined Al-Nassr and soon paved the path for other household names to move to the Middle East. He has enjoyed an impressive stay with the Riyadh-based club so far, registering 74 goals and 18 assists from 83 games.

Speaking to the Saudi Pro League's media channel, Cristiano Ronaldo recently insisted that he takes pride in helping the league grow.

"For me, it is an honor that the league is growing and many star players are coming to make the league even better and more competitive. To be the first one - let’s say a star - to come here is an honour, but what I’m looking forward to is the next five to 10 years of the league still improving, not only the first teams but also the academies," Ronaldo said (via GOAL).

He continued:

"Not just for the future of the Saudi [players] and the league, but for the country and to compete with other leagues - this is my dream. And this is what I will try to help the country and league reach and be there at that level."

CR7's contract with Al-Nassr expires at the end of this season but it appears that he could extend his stay.

How many trophies has Cristiano Ronaldo won with Al-Nassr?

Cristiano Ronaldo with the Arab Club Champions Cup trophy

Cristiano Ronaldo won the Arab Club Champions Cup with Al-Nassr in 2023. The Portuguese icon scored a brace in the 2-1 win over Al-Hilal in the final to secure his only trophy in the Middle East.

Speaking about the game, CR7 insisted that it is his favorite memory.

"Probably when we won the first title [the 2023 King Salman Arab Clubs Cup, in which he scored both goals in the 2-1 victory against Al Hilal that captured the crown]. The final against Al-Hilal was probably the most intense one that we lived," Ronaldo said in the same interview.

He continued:

"You know, when you win titles, things come easier, and to have the privilege to win in my first year here my first trophy was amazing. But I want more. I will continue to push and help my team Al-Nassr to win titles. I believe that this year will be a good year for Al-Nassr."

Cristiano Ronaldo has won 34 trophies in his career.