Rui Pedro, the sporting director of Al-Ahli Saudi FC, praised the pivotal and historic role played by Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo in transforming Saudi football and placing it on the global stage. Pedro's comments confirm a growing recognition within international sporting circles: that Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr was not merely a fleeting transfer, but rather the cornerstone of a massive sporting project.
Statements reflecting the new reality
Speaking to Sky Sports, Pedro didn't hesitate to give credit where it's due, stating clearly: "If we are all working here in Saudi Arabia today, the greatest credit goes to Cristiano Ronaldo." The Al-Ahli official pointed out that Ronaldo's influence extended beyond the pitch, becoming a decisive factor in convincing a select group of coaches, administrators, and international players to accept Saudi offers and contribute to the development of the Saudi Professional League.
The domino effect and high-stakes deals
Looking back at recent history, Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr in the winter of 2013 sent shockwaves through the global sports world. This bold move opened the floodgates in the following summer transfer window, with the Saudi league witnessing an unprecedented influx of international stars. Al-Ahli itself benefited from this trend, successfully attracting big names like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, and Franck Kessié. This supports Pedro's view that Ronaldo's presence broke down psychological barriers and transformed the Saudi league into an attractive destination, not just a retirement stop.
Global and economic dimensions
The Portuguese star's influence extends beyond the technical aspects of the game, encompassing economic and marketing dimensions. The market value of the Saudi league has soared, and its matches are now broadcast on television channels in over 140 countries worldwide. Pedro concluded his remarks by commenting on one of Ronaldo's recent goals, emphasizing that the player's continued passion and high level of skill, despite his age, sends a powerful message about the seriousness of the competition in Saudi Arabia. This strengthens the league's position among the strongest leagues outside of Europe, aligning with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 in the sports sector.
