Neymar Jr. praises Ronaldo for sparking Saudi soccer revolution

   BbNeymar Jr., one of the most talented and popular soccer players in the world, has recently made a surprising move to Al Hilal, a club in the Saudi Pro League. The Brazilian superstar, who left Paris Saint-Germain after six years of winning trophies and breaking records, has revealed his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, who he says was the pioneer of the soccer boom in Saudi Arabia.

     Ronaldo, the Portuguese legend and five-time Ballon d’Or winner, shocked the world when he signed a lucrative deal with Al-Nassr in December 2022, leaving Manchester United for the second time in his career. Many critics and fans questioned his decision, calling him “crazy” and accusing him of chasing money over glory.

     However, Ronaldo proved them wrong by leading Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title in his first season, scoring 35 goals in 28 games. He also helped raise the profile and quality of the league, attracting many other star players to join him in the Middle East.

     Neymar, who played against Ronaldo many times in Europe, says he respects and admires his former rival for taking on such a challenge and opening new doors for other players.

“I believe Cristiano Ronaldo started all of this and everybody called him ‘crazy,’ and this and that. Today, you see the league grow more and more,” Neymar told Al Hilal’s social channels.

    Neymar is not the only big name to follow Ronaldo’s footsteps. Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Kalidou Koulibaly, Edouard Mendy, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mané and Marcelo Brozović are among the players who have also made summer moves to the Saudi Pro League, making it one of the most competitive and exciting leagues in the world.

    Neymar says he is motivated by challenges and wants to help the league grow even further. He also reflects on his time at PSG, where he formed a formidable front three with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi, but failed to achieve his ultimate dream of winning the Champions League.

“I am driven by challenges,” Neymar said. "Obviously, when you face a challenge like this it boosts your self-esteem. I am there to help the league grow more and more.

“They are already changing a lot; they have made a lot of signings. Yes, surely the league will be very competitive especially after the signings made in this summer transfer window.”

    Neymar will now star for Al Hilal alongside the likes of Sergej Milinković-Savić, Rúben Neves and Malcom who have also joined the club. He will also face his old friend Ronaldo when Al Hilal meets Al-Nassr in the Saudi Super Cup on September 10.

    The Saudi Pro League is set to kick off on August 25, with Al Hilal facing Al-Faisaly in their opening match. Fans around the world will be eager to watch Neymar and Ronaldo light up the league with their skills and goals.

    What do you think of Neymar’s move to Al Hilal? Do you agree with him that Ronaldo started the soccer revolution in Saudi Arabia? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!