27th December, 2024
Michael Benson
Cristiano Ronaldo has been crowned the Best Middle East Player at the Globe Soccer Awards on Friday.
The award recognised his contributions to football in Saudi Arabia since joining Al Nassr.
The Portuguese forward’s move to the Saudi Pro League has drawn significant international attention, reflecting football’s expanding influence beyond its traditional hubs.
The Globe Soccer Awards, organised with input from major entities like UEFA and the UAE Pro League, are known for celebrating excellence across the sport.
However, during the award ceremony, Ronaldo espoused a contentious opinion, positing that the Saudi Arabian league surpasses the French league, wherein his fiercest rival, Lionel Messi, once plied his trade.
Ronaldo articulated his stance with unwavering conviction, stating: “Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished. Try to sprint in 38, 39, 40 degree weather and see…”
Ronaldo also dropped his sagacious insights regarding the tribulations afflicting his erstwhile club, Manchester United.
He astutely observed that the club’s predicament cannot be solely attributed to the coaching staff.
Ronaldo expressed his sentiments with characteristic candor, declaring: “I love Manchester United, I want the best for them. The problem is NOT the coach, it’s different.”
The Portuguese star also shared his thoughts on the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, Rodrigo Hernández Cascante (Rodri), stating that Vinicius Jr was his preferred choice for the award.
Ronaldo expressed his disagreement with the decision, saying: “Vinicius Jr should have won the Ballon d’Or, it’s been unfair decision. This is why I love Globe Soccer Awards, as they are honest.”
