Nigeria's Victor Osimhen credits Saudi Pro League's growth to Cristiano Ronaldo's influence

Ronaldo is in FIFPRO XI nomination but no Osimhen (Photo Credit: Imago)

Nigeria's Victor Osimhen credits Saudi Pro League's growth to Cristiano Ronaldo's influence

Izuchukwu Akawor 12:54 - 26.10.2023

Nigeria Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen runs the rule on Cristiano Ronaldo's role in the rise of the Saudi Pro League.

Nigerian international and SSC Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen, has attributed the significant growth and transformation of the Saudi Pro League to Portuguese superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo. 

The Saudi Pro League has been on a remarkable journey of development and expansion since Ronaldo joined in January following an acrimonious departure from Manchester United. 

Osimhen on Saudi Arabia

In the ever-evolving landscape of football, the impact of iconic players often extends beyond the pitch, shaping leagues and competitions across the globe.

Saudi Arabia’s Pro League has attracted international attention and top talents worldwide since Ronaldo’s big-money move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr. 

Napoli forward Victor Osimhen | Imago

Nigeria’s Osimhen, who currently plies his trade in the Italian league with Napoli, believes that Ronaldo’s presence has played a major and pivotal role in the league’s burgeoning success.

“They are trying to develop their league, which is good," Osimhen said, according to a report from ESPN.

Ronaldo returned to action as Al Nassr defeated Al Duhail 4-3 in an AFC Champions League fixture played on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.
Ronaldo returned to action as Al Nassr defeated Al Duhail 4-3 in an AFC Champions League fixture played on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

"One [Ronaldo] of the greatest of all time has gone there. Because of his [Ronaldo's] influence, they have attracted a lot of talented players to also go there.”

“So for me it's really good, they are trying to build their league into one of the best. They are doing something amazing,” he added. 

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Ronaldo’s Saudi move

The 38-year-old, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, made a high-profile move to Al Nassr after former club Manchester United terminated his contract following a disagreement with Erik Ten Hag.

Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Erik ten Hag during his time at Manchester United. (Photo Credit: Imago)

His arrival brought unprecedented attention and excitement to the Pro League, which has gone on to add more high-profile players, further enhancing the league’s reputation as a choice destination for players.  

The likes of Brazilian superstar, Neymar, Karim Benzema, the Real Madrid legend, and Sadio Mane, who made his name in Liverpool, are some of over 90 players who have since joined the league from around the world.

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Osimhen, who has also been linked with a move to the Pro League in the past with his comment recognises the Portuguese forward’s immense influence. 

The Saudi Pro League has not only witnessed an influx of top talents but also a boost in viewership, contributing to its growth. The transformation has been a testament to the power of marquee players in football and their ability to elevate leagues to new heights. 

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