Neymar awaits Ronaldo clash at Al-Hilal; credits him Saudi Pro League.
“I think Cristiano Ronaldo started it all, and everyone called him crazy and this and that,” the player said. In his first interview following the signing, Neymar observed, “Today, you can see the league expanding steadily.
After six years with Paris St. Germain, the 31-year-old Neymar on Tuesday agreed to a two-year contract with the Riyadh-based club in a deal reportedly for approximately 90 million euros ($98 million).
Ronaldo, a five-time winner of the Ballon d’Or, left Manchester United amicably in December and signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Al-Nassr.
Since then, the Saudi Pro League has made around 600 million euros in an effort to entice a number of elite players and coaches from European clubs.
Jordan Henderson, the captain of Liverpool, the Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema from Real Madrid, and Riyad Mahrez from Manchester City are notable additions.
“Meeting top-notch players on the other teams is thrilling and inspires you to perform even better, so it’s exciting. And it goes without saying that the anticipation is increased when you play against Ronaldo, Benzema, or (Roberto) Firmino,” Neymar added.
Ruben Neves, a former captain of the Wolverhampton Wanderers, Serbia’s Sergei Milinkovic-Savic, Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly, and Brazilian attacker Malcom were all signed by Al-Hilal. Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus was also rehired on a one-year contract.
“I believe that having quality in the squad is really crucial. Evidently, it influences some of the choices you make during your career. Without a doubt, it was for me, Neymar remarked.
“I am very eager to start a new chapter, chasing all the goals with the team and the club, winning more and more championships and realizing the club’s dream.”
On Saturday, the Saudi Pro League’s next round will feature Al-Hilal hosting Al-Feiha.
