"The Saudi League is more competitive than the Portuguese League" - Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr teammate makes bold claim about SPL
Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr teammate Otavio has made a bold claim about the competitiveness of the Saudi Pro League and the Portuguese league. The attacking midfielder reckons that the SPL is more competitive than the Liga Portugal.
Cristiano Ronaldo's sensational move to the Middle East has helped to project the Saudi Pro League in a good light, with many players following in his footsteps in recent months, including Otavio.
The attacking midfielder joined Al Nassr from FC Porto in a deal worth €60 million back in August 2023.
In his first season at the club, the 29-year-old made 46 appearances across all competitions, contributing 11 goals and eight assists.
Reflecting on the season, Otavio stated that he's had a good year and hopes to make it even better in the next one.
“I hope next season will be even better, with titles. Individually, it was a very good year. Next season the objective is to fight for all the titles and try to be champion. We have the team to do it and I'm sure we'll win titles," he said (via O Jogo).
Otavio then went on to drop the bombshell, claiming that the Saudi Pro League ranks ahead of the Portuguese top-flight in terms of competitiveness.
"The Championship has grown a lot due to the number of international and top players it has. And in the coming years, it will get better and better. I played in Portugal for a long time and, honestly, I think the Saudi Arabian championship, at the moment, is more competitive due to the fact that it has several top teams. In Portugal, we know that every year the same people fight for the title," the attacking midfielder added.
The 2023-24 campaign proved to be a prolific one for Cristiano Ronaldo as well. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner bagged an impressive 44 goals and 13 assists for Al Nassr in 45 games across fronts.
What's next for Cristiano Ronaldo and Otavio following trophyless season with Al Nassr?
After failing to clinch silverware with Al Nassr despite their fantastic numbers, Cristiano Ronaldo and Otavio will look to put that disappointment behind them as they gear up to represent Portugal in the European Championships.
Roberto Martinez's men will play their opening game versus Czechia at the Red Bull Arena Leipzig Stadium on Tuesday, June 18. They will then take on Turkey and Georgia in their next two games to round up the group phase.
Portugal proved their readiness by beating Ireland 3-0 in a friendly on Tuesday, with Cristiano Ronaldo bagging a fantastic brace. It remains to be seen if they can maintain that momentum heading into the competition.