The emergence of the Saudi Pro League happened in 2022 when Cristiano Ronaldo moved to the Middle East after his illustrious career in Europe.
His move to Saudi Arabia has been a game-changer for the entire league, as many more world-class players have made the switch since then.
The 40-year-old forward, who features for Al Nassr and has signed a new two-year contract, also claimed that the Saudi Pro League is among the top five leagues in the world.
However, in a recent interview with L’Equipe, former Manchester City star player Riyadh Mahrez has disagreed with Ronaldo’s opinion on the Saudi Pro League.
Mahrez, who features for Al Ahli Saudi, guided his team to the AFC Champions League Elite triumph last season with a win over Kawasaki Frontale in the final.
When asked about Ronaldo’s claim that the Saudi Pro League is one of the top five leagues in the world, the Algerian forward remarked, “No. I think the five big European leagues are ahead, and then we can start to compete with the other leagues.
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“We’re not too far off, I think. After that, the goal isn’t to be the best league in the world right now. We’re looking at the long term.
“Those like me who have arrived are here at the beginning of this adventure, we’re a bit like pioneers. We’re helping them make this league stronger. And frankly, over my two seasons, I’ve felt progress in the teams, the coaches, the tactics and the organisation. They’re trying to get there, and I think they’ll get there. They’re putting in the effort and they really want it. “
What did Mahrez say about Lionel Messi joining Al Ahli?
There were some rumours of Al Ahli pushing for a move to sign Lionel Messi this summer amid a contract impasse with Inter Miami.
While there are indications of the Argentine icon staying at Inter Miami, Mahrez is ecstatic if a move to Al Ahli happens anyway.
“I’ve heard some things but I don’t know if it’s true. If it happens, it would be incredible to play alongside the greatest ever”
Mahrez, who has been crucial to Leicester City’s iconic Premier League triumph, followed by his heroics for Manchester City, where he won the Champions League, among other accolades.
The Algerian admitted that he misses playing in Europe, he highlighted, “Sometimes I do. European football is at a higher level, and I love those challenges. But I’m fully committed here. I feel comfortable at Al Ahli and proud to be part of this development”
The 34-year-old moved to Al Ahli in 2023, and since then, he has been one of their star players.
Mahrez had a great 2024/25 campaign where he netted 17 goals and provided 18 assists in 44 appearances across competitions.
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