Rui Pedro, the sporting director of Al-Ahli Saudi FC, praised the pivotal role played by his fellow Portuguese, Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr FC, in elevating the level and prestige of the Saudi Professional League on the global stage. In statements to Sky Sports, Pedro emphasized that Ronaldo's influence extends beyond the pitch, as he was the spark that ignited a true football revolution in the Kingdom, drawing the world's attention to the ambitious Saudi sports project.
Pedro said, “The primary credit goes to Ronaldo for reaching this stage and for giving us the opportunity to work in Saudi Arabia.” He added that Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in late 2022 was not just a sporting deal, but a historic event that opened the door wide for a constellation of the world’s most prominent football stars to join the Saudi League, thus raising its technical and marketing value to unprecedented levels.
Historical context: Ronaldo's impact as a turning point
Before Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival, the Saudi league was considered a destination for players at the end of their careers, but his transfer completely changed this perception. His decision to join Al-Nassr sent a strong message to the world that the Kingdom was serious about its sports project within Vision 2030. The summer of 2023, which followed his arrival, witnessed a historic wave of transfers, with world-class players such as Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté joining Al-Ittihad, Neymar joining Al-Hilal, while Al-Ahli, where Pedro works, attracted stars like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Edouard Mendy.
Importance and expected impact on Saudi football
Ronaldo's influence extends across multiple dimensions. Domestically , his presence, along with other stars, has significantly raised the level of competition, increased fan attendance, and inspired a new generation of young Saudi players. Regionally , the Saudi Professional League has cemented its position as the strongest league in the Middle East and Asia, attracting widespread media and fan attention.
Internationally , Ronaldo has put the Saudi League on the global map. League matches are now broadcast in over 170 countries worldwide, and the league's market value has doubled, attracting international sponsors. Pedro noted that Ronaldo continues to break records despite his age, reflecting his exceptional professionalism and unwavering passion, setting a remarkable example both on and off the field.
Pedro's statements come at an important time, confirming the consensus among various Saudi football figures, even rivals, on the positive role Ronaldo played in this qualitative leap, which helps to calm any controversy that may arise about the player and highlights his true value to the project as a whole.
