Ex-Saudi Sports Minister Prince Abdullah bin Mosaad asserted that Cristiano Ronaldo stands as the sole foreign player in the Saudi Pro League genuinely deserving of his earnings. Ronaldo, who became part of Al Nassr in December 2022, is said to make $211 million per year, and Prince Abdullah views him as the only overseas player delivering worth commensurate with his pay.
While discussing on Al-Arabiya’s Fi Al-Marama show, Prince Abdullah cautioned that the league’s surge, in marquee signings, is detrimentally affecting the progress of players and might threaten the national team’s future competitive edge—especially as the kingdom prepares to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
He voiced worry that local players have turned into “extras” after clubs were allowed to play eight athletes during matchdays, calling on officials to cut the number to seven and focus on funding youth development.
“Creating a league must not undermine the national team “, he stated, urging the development of a detailed strategy for 2034 and the recruitment of elite coaches in youth divisions.
Prince Abdullah also recommended scheduling major league matches on Thursdays to allow elite European referees to officiate, citing past challenges with officiating standards.
