Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is facing backlash after suggesting that the Saudi Pro League is on par with, or even superior to, Ligue 1, The Mirror reported.
Ronaldo, who made the move to Saudi Arabia last January, defended the league’s quality, stating that it is more competitive than the French league.
In response to Ronaldo’s comments, former Chelsea and Marseille star Franck Leboeuf expressed his frustration, urging Ronaldo to “shut up” and suggesting that Portugal should exclude him if they aim to win Euro 2024.
Leboeuf questioned Ronaldo’s choice to compare the Saudi league to Ligue 1 instead of the Portuguese league, attributing it to Lionel Messi’s presence in the French league.
Leboeuf said: “It annoys me when I hear Cristiano Ronaldo saying that the Saudi Pro League is better than Ligue 1. Why do you think he chose to make that comment about Ligue 1 rather than the Portuguese League? It’s because Lionel Messi played in Ligue 1.”
Despite acknowledging Ronaldo’s contributions to football, Leboeuf pointed out Ronaldo’s unfairness toward Ligue 1 and suggested that Portugal’s chances at the Euro 2024 would improve without Ronaldo.
While critical of Ronaldo’s comparison, Leboeuf clarified that he holds no issue with players choosing lesser leagues for the twilight of their careers, acknowledging the impact of both Ronaldo and Messi on the sport. He concluded by expressing gratitude to the two football icons and wishing them an enjoyable retirement.
