Cristiano Ronaldo (foto: Getty Images)
Former Saudi sports minister Prince Abdullah bin Mosaad claims Cristiano Ronaldo is the only foreign player in the Saudi Pro League truly earning his wages due to his unmatched global impact.
Former Saudi sports minister Prince Abdullah bin Mosaad has sparked debate by declaring that Cristiano Ronaldo is the only foreign player in the Saudi Pro League whose performances and influence justify his enormous salary.
Speaking to Al-Arabiya, Prince Abdullah praised the 40-year-old Portuguese superstar for the global exposure he continues to bring to the league, while criticising other high-profile imports who, in his view, fail to deliver value for money.
“Ronaldo is the only foreign player worth what he earns because of the global exposure he brings to the league and the country. Many others are paid far more than they deserve,” said the former minister, who led Saudi Arabia’s sports ministry from 2014 to 2017.
“The international renown that Ronaldo brings is unparalleled. He is the only foreign player whose impact justifies the level of his salary. No one else has done that for the league.”
Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in January 2023 after parting ways with Manchester United. His arrival in Saudi Arabia paved the way for other major names such as Karim Benzema, Sadio Mané, and Riyad Mahrez to follow. But Prince Abdullah insists that none have matched Ronaldo’s combination of sporting success and marketing power.
Ronaldo, who signed an extended deal in the summer reportedly worth $211 million per year, remains the face of Saudi Arabia’s football revolution. His presence has significantly boosted sponsorships, viewership, and commercial revenue for both Al-Nassr and the SPL as a whole.
On the pitch, the veteran forward continues to perform at the highest level. Last weekend, he scored a spectacular bicycle kick in a 4-1 win over Al Khaleej, taking his tally to 11 goals in 12 league matches this season. His form reinforces the perception that he remains the league’s standout attraction.
Despite his continued dominance, Ronaldo recently acknowledged that his legendary career is nearing its final chapter. “I’m really enjoying the moment right now,” he said. “I feel very good, I score goals, I still feel quick and sharp. But let’s be honest — what I mean by ‘soon’ is probably one or two years.”
As Saudi football continues its transformation, Prince Abdullah’s remarks underline Ronaldo’s unique role not just as a player, but as an ambassador shaping the global perception of Saudi sport.