Soccer
Neymar in agreement with Cristiano Ronaldo over controversial Saudi Arabia comment
Former Barcelona star Neymar has backed ex-Real Madrid rival Ronaldo’s comparison of the Saudi Pro League and one of Europe’s biggest championships.
Cristiano Ronaldo made a controversial statement at the Globe Soccer Awards when asked to compare the Saudi Pro League and France’s Ligue 1. “The Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course,” expressed the former Real Madrid star. “In France, there’s only PSG; the rest are finished. If you don’t believe me, try running in 100-degree heat and you’ll see”. Now, Brazilian star Neymar, who recently left France for Saudi Arabia, has joined the debate, backing the Portuguese star’s claim.
In the eyes of most, Neymar left elite European soccer when he joined Ronaldo and other stars in Saudi Arabia from PSG. However, an injury during the South American 2026 World Cup qualifiers with Brazil has limited his playing time. Since joining Al Hilal in August 2023, the former Barcelona star has only played in seven matches.
Neymar’s praise for Saudi Arabia
In an interview with CNN, Neymar discussed various topics, including his agreement with Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial remark, asserting that soccer in Saudi Arabia is currently of a higher standard than in France.
“Today, I believe so. The level of the Saudi Pro League is rising, and from what I see, it’s better than Ligue 1. Ligue 1 has its positives. That league is very strong. I played in it, so I know it well,” Neymar stated.
“Today, the players in the Saudi Pro League are better. Saudi Arabia has pleasantly surprised me. The people, the country, the cities, the culture. I think it’s a country in continuous growth. Additionally, it will host the World Cup in 2034, which I believe will be incredible,” the Brazilian star concluded.
Original article written by Bryan Arellano, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Roddy Cons.
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