Mahrez rejects Ronaldo's controversial Saudi Pro League opinion

Former Manchester City ace Riyad Mahrez has countered Cristiano Ronaldo’s claim that the Saudi Pro League was better than Ligue 1 and among the top five football leagues in the world. 

The 32-year-old, like Ronaldo, was one of the talented footballers from European leagues attracted to the SPL following the PIF’s acquisition of the big four clubs in the division. He was signed by Al Ahli in 2023, and has spent two seasons in the division.

On more than one occasion, Ronaldo has questioned the quality and competitiveness of Ligue 1, comparing it to the Saudi Pro League, which, in his view, is superior. 

On one such instance, he said, “The Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished. Try to sprint in 38, 39, or 40-degree weather and see.”

The Portuguese legend went on to say that Ligue 1 has only one team competing and the rest are finished. He also said that the Saudi Pro League was amongst the top divisions in the world. 

While the Algerian winger noted that the Saudi League is steadily improving, he disagreed that it was better than the French top flight or on its level. 

"No. I think the five big European leagues are ahead, and then we can start to compete with the other leagues,” he said. 

"We're not too far off, I think. After that, the goal isn't to be the best league in the world right now. We're looking at the long term.

"Those like me who have arrived are here at the beginning of this adventure. We're a bit like pioneers. We're helping them make this league stronger. 

“And frankly, over my two seasons, I've felt progress in the teams, the coaches, the tactics and the organisation. They're trying to get there, and I think they'll get there. They're putting in the effort and they really want it."