Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has spoken out in defense of his long-time teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, insisting that the Portuguese superstar’s influence on Saudi Arabian football is undeniable and unparalleled.
According to Portuguese media, Ronaldo recently returned to training with Al Nassr after missing the club’s last two matches as a form of protest over January’s transfer activity. He is expected to make his return in the next Saudi Pro League match against Al-Fateh this weekend, rather than the February 11 AFC Champions League Two match against Arkadag.
Speaking on his podcast, Kroos highlighted Ronaldo as the key figure behind the Saudi Pro League’s sudden rise to global attention. “The Saudi league is a strange phenomenon” Kroos said. “Before Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival, no one had even heard of him. And now they show a lack of respect towards the same player who put the league on the map of world football. If Cristiano were to leave tomorrow, the league would lose its charm. Without Ronaldo, no one would watch the Saudi Pro League.”
Despite the ongoing controversies, Ronaldo continues to deliver impressive performances on the pitch. At the age of 41, he scored 17 goals in 18 league appearances, playing a crucial role in Al Nassr’s title run. Beyond his contributions on the pitch, Ronaldo’s huge salary and commercial clout have cemented his status as one of the most influential footballing figures in the Middle East.
Kroos is not the only one to support Ronaldo. Another Real Madrid legend, Roberto Carlos, also expressed strong support for Ronaldo, describing him as an enduring source of inspiration for younger generations. The former Brazilian star even suggested that Ronaldo could realistically reach the historic milestone of 1,000 career goals if he continues to play.
After the recent turmoil, Ronaldo’s return should help stabilize Al Nassr and reignite their title ambitions. More generally, it serves as a reminder that Ronaldo’s presence still carries enormous weight not only for his club, but for the Saudi Pro League as a whole.
Sources: Znews
