Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent remarks comparing the Saudi Pro League favorably to France’s Ligue 1 have sparked significant backlash, notably from former French international Adil Rami. During the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai, Ronaldo asserted that the Saudi league surpasses Ligue 1, stating, “France only has PSG. The rest are finished.” He also highlighted the challenges of playing in Saudi Arabia’s intense heat.
Rami, who has played for French clubs such as Lille and Marseille, responded vehemently during a Twitch live stream. He criticized Ronaldo’s comments as “s***” and contended that the Portuguese star would struggle against Ligue 1 defenders, stating, “We have defenders, they are machines! You put him in Ligue 1 and he gets eaten.”
The official Ligue 1 Spanish Twitter account also reacted by posting an image of Lionel Messi holding the World Cup trophy, captioned: “Leo Messi playing with 38 degrees.” This was a subtle reference to Ronaldo’s comments about the challenging Saudi climate and a nod to Messi’s success while playing in high temperatures.
Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in December 2022 marked a significant shift in his career, with the Saudi Pro League attracting several high-profile players since his arrival. Despite his accolades, including being named Best Middle Eastern Player and Top Goalscorer of All Time at the Globe Soccer Awards, his recent comments have ignited a debate about the comparative quality of European and Middle Eastern football leagues.
This incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding comparisons between football leagues and the pride associated with national competitions. Rami’s strong reaction reflects a broader defense of Ligue 1’s competitiveness and the caliber of its players. As the global football landscape evolves, such debates are likely to continue, especially as emerging leagues seek to establish their reputations on the world stage.
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