Netflix has released a new documentary titled Saudi Pro League: A New Era, which delves into the rise of Saudi Arabia’s football league (SPL). One of the central figures in this production is Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr in January 2023 after leaving Manchester United, marking a significant shift in his career, possibly the final stage at the club level.

The Portuguese star’s move to Saudi football followed a strained relationship with manager Erik ten Hag and a limited role in the English club's lineup. After the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Cristiano landed at Al Nassr, where he continues to be a key player.

"I came to win, to improve the league. I want to leave a legacy"

In the documentary, Cristiano expresses his unwavering passion for football and his ambition to make an impact:
"I came to win, to improve the league. I want to leave a legacy. That’s what I want. They say I’m finished, that I’m only here for the money… but I still feel the passion. They don’t believe it, but I’m here to win."

Raising the Saudi Pro League’s Profile

Since Ronaldo’s arrival, the SPL has seen a remarkable boost in competitiveness, attracting renowned international stars. Clubs like Al Hilal boast players such as Bono, Joao Cancelo, Koulibaly, Mitrovic, and Neymar. Meanwhile, Al Ittihad features talents like Kanté, Fabinho, and Karim Benzema, and Al Ahli has signed names like Mahrez, Firmino, and Gabri Veiga.

Cristiano has acted as a catalyst for this transformation, playing a pivotal role in the league’s development and cementing his reputation as a trailblazer in Saudi football.

Stats and Legacy

Since joining Al Nassr, Cristiano has played 79 matches, scoring 68 goals and providing 18 assists. In the 2023-24 season, he was the top scorer of the year (including his international appearances) with 57 goals. Currently, he shares the field with elite players like Laporte, Brozovic, and Mané, striving to break Al Hilal’s dominance, the team to beat in recent years.

The Quest for 1,000 Goals

At 39 years old, Cristiano continues to push boundaries. With 910 career goals, he is edging closer to the mythical milestone of 1,000, although he admits retirement might not be far off:
"If it has to happen, it will be in one or two years, I don’t know. I’m about to turn 40."

Despite the uncertainties about his future, Cristiano’s legacy in Saudi Arabia and global football is already firmly established.