"Ronaldo is the only foreign player worth what he earns because of the global exposure he brings to the league and the country. Many others are paid far more than they deserve."
"Ronaldo plays for Al-Nassr, who are 75% owned by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF). It is reported the Portugal striker earns over £3million a week. The 40-year-old has scored 84 goals in 86 league games for Al-Nassr, who are top of the Pro League with a 100% record after nine games, since joining them from Manchester United in 2022."
"Ronaldo's value to the Saudi brand was on display last week when he was part of a 40-person delegation, along with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and FIFA president Gianni Infantino, to visit the White House for a public show of mutual affection with US president Donald Trump."
Saudi clubs have paid enormous sums to attract leading footballers from top European leagues. Significant skepticism exists that the recruitment strategy serves as sportswashing to improve the kingdom's image despite human rights concerns. Cristiano Ronaldo provides global exposure and strong on-field output, scoring 84 goals in 86 league games for Al-Nassr and reportedly earning over £3 million per week, which helps justify his remuneration. Other high-profile signings such as Karim Benzema, Joao Felix, Sadio Mane, and Kingsley Coman are viewed as receiving wages that exceed their contributions. Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup and there is a push for greater emphasis on homegrown talent.
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
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