The Unwavering Conviction of Cristiano Ronaldo: Saudi League’s Fiercest Defender
In a bold declaration that has sent ripples across the global football landscape, legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo has vehemently defended his decision to extend his stay with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. The Portuguese maestro, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest, didn’t mince words when addressing critics of the Saudi Pro League, asserting that those who doubt its quality “know nothing” about the sport’s rapid evolution in the Kingdom.
This powerful statement, emerging from an exclusive interview on Al Nassr FC’s YouTube channel, underscores Ronaldo’s profound belief in the project he joined in 2022 after his departure from Manchester United. His commitment, now solidified with a two-year contract extension, signals an enduring dedication to transforming football in Saudi Arabia.
Why Two More Years? A Legacy Beyond Goals
For Cristiano Ronaldo, the decision to commit another two seasons to Al Nassr extends far beyond financial incentives or mere goal tallies – though his prolific record of 93 goals in 105 appearances for the club speaks for itself. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner articulated a deeper purpose: a resolute “compromise to make change” not only within the confines of Al Nassr but across the entire nation.
“My goal is always to win something important for Al Nassr, and I still believe in that,” Ronaldo affirmed. His ambition to be crowned champion in Saudi Arabia remains a driving force, intertwining his personal pursuit of glory with the overarching vision for Saudi football’s growth.
Strategic Rest for Grandeur: Prioritizing the World Stage
Interestingly, the interview also shed light on Ronaldo’s recent decision to forego opportunities to participate in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in the United States. He revealed receiving offers but opted for a period of crucial rest and meticulous preparation. This strategic pause is specifically aimed at ensuring peak performance for the demanding season ahead, which culminates in the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026.
“I prefer to have a good rest, a good preparation, because this season will be very long, as this is the season of the World Cup,” Ronaldo explained. This highlights his unwavering focus not just on his club duties with Al Nassr, but also on his pivotal role with the Portugal national team, for whom he remains a vital asset.
Dismissing the Doubters: A League on the Ascendant
Ronaldo’s most striking comments were reserved for the Saudi Pro League itself. He adamantly believes the league has ascended into the world’s top five, and that its upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing. His defiance towards skeptics was palpable. “Only the people who have never played in Saudi they don’t understand anything about football and say this league is not in the top five,” he declared with conviction.
This resonates with the sentiments of other high-profile players who have joined the Saudi Arabian top flight, reinforcing the idea that the league’s competitiveness is often underestimated by external observers. Ronaldo’s strong words are a direct challenge to the prevailing narrative among some European football pundits and fans.
Beyond the Pitch: Ronaldo’s Vision for Saudi Arabia
Cristiano Ronaldo sees his presence in Saudi Arabia as more than just a footballing engagement. He views himself as an integral part of the nation’s broader developmental project, extending his influence beyond the pitch to cultural transformation. His long-term vision stretches as far as 2034, hinting at a deep alignment with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious goals, including the potential hosting of the FIFA World Cup.
“I’m not coming only to play football. I play for change of country, cultural country. So I’m a part of that process,” he stated, reinforcing his commitment to the Kingdom’s expansive future. This perspective casts Ronaldo not just as an athlete, but as a global ambassador for a nation undergoing significant change.
No Coaching Whistle for the Portuguese Maestro
While passionate about his current role and the future of Saudi football, Ronaldo drew a firm line regarding his post-playing career. He unequivocally dismissed any possibility of transitioning into a coaching role. “To be a coach, I can tell right now, I’m never going to be a coach. Never, never,” he asserted, adding that it’s simply “not in my plans” for the next five, ten, or even twenty years.
Despite this definitive stance, he left room for other forms of involvement, particularly in the growth of Saudi Arabia. “Projects and be part of the growth of the country, to be on the side of the country, for sure. I will be next to the country because I’m not coming only to play football… I belong to Saudi Arabia,” he concluded, leaving no doubt about his enduring connection to his new home.
