Nacho Fernández, former Real Madrid captain and current Al Qadsiah defender, is convinced that Saudi Arabian football will continue to grow until it can compete with the most powerful leagues in the world. His remarks come shortly after Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr star, defended the league’s competitiveness and described it as an attractive alternative for elite players.

During his team’s training camp at “La Nucía Football Center,” the Saudi club’s captain highlighted the league’s progress. “It’s true that the Spanish league and European leagues are more developed, but the Saudi league has grown a lot in recent years. Many of us foreigners have arrived, and I’m happy to help the young players continue to improve. I’m sure that in a few years it will compete with the best,” he stated.

Growth and Ambition in Saudi Arabia

In his second season under Míchel González, Nacho is preparing to play the Super Cup in Hong Kong, where Al Qadsiah will face Al Ahli. After finishing fourth last season, the defender admits that expectations will be higher this campaign, but he trusts the group and the new signings.

The team has taken advantage of its preseason in Spain to face opponents such as Levante and Sevilla, leaving positive impressions. “We’ve played great matches, proving we can compete against anyone,” noted the former Madrid player.

Cristiano’s Implicit Support for the Saudi League

Nacho’s words align with Cristiano Ronaldo’s stance, as the Portuguese recently made headlines for his comment on the Ballon d’Or: “It’s fictional.” He also praised the Saudi league by advising his compatriot João Félix to sign with Al Nassr instead of returning to Portugal.

Cristiano himself recently starred in Al Nassr’s 4-0 win over Rio Ave, scoring a hat-trick (minutes 44, 63, and 68) and receiving strong offensive support from Félix, who provided two assists and won the penalty for the third goal.

With world-class stars joining every season and clubs making ambitious moves, the Saudi league continues to gain visibility and credibility. For veterans like Nacho and Cristiano, as well as for young talents, Saudi Arabia seems determined to establish itself as a competitive and attractive destination on the global football stage.