Former Saudi Pro League player and manager Theo Bucker has lauded the impact of Cristiano Ronaldo on the Saudi Pro League. However, he also expressed concerns that the league’s standards might regress once Ronaldo concludes his tenure with Al Nassr.
Bucker emphasized Ronaldo’s transformative effect on Saudi soccer, foreseeing a future where the sport progresses significantly due to his presence. Nonetheless, he cautioned that the departure of players of Ronaldo’s caliber could potentially lead to a decline in the league’s competitiveness.
In his remarks to AS (via Essentially Sports), Bucker stated: “Cristiano is a completely different player and he will make Saudi soccer more advanced in the future and push it forward, but I am afraid that once these players like him leave, the level will go back to what it was before.”
Ronaldo’s arrival in January 2023 sparked a surge in interest in the Saudi League, attracting numerous top European players during the subsequent summer transfer window in 2023.
Bucker underscored the importance for players in the league to capitalize on the opportunity to glean valuable lessons from Ronaldo and other stars. “It is an opportunity for all clubs and players to learn from him and the other stars, but they must be sustainable,” he remarked.
Currently, esteemed players such as Neymar, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Ruben Neves are active participants in the league. However, not all experiences have been positive, with Jordan Henderson departing Al Ettifaq after a brief stint. Reports also suggest that Benzema is facing challenges during his time in Saudi Arabia.
