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October 10, 2025
The Saudi Pro League has entered a defining stage in its global expansion. Following high-profile arrivals of stars like Neymar, Benzema, and Kante, the league is shifting from novelty to genuine competition. And at the heart of that evolution, one figure continues to embody its rise — Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cristiano Ronaldo remains very much the pulsing heart of Al-Nassr as the Saudi Pro League enters its new season. With newfound resolve and a bolstered team, the experienced forward finds himself, once again, at the centre of football in the Middle East.
The new Saudi Pro League season has started under big lights and lofty goals. Attendance has really expanded, worldwide interest has gained steam and the league’s biggest stars are leading the way. Cristiano Ronaldo, now in his third year at Al-Nassr, is still the league’s leading man. He is a true lasting embodiment of professionalism, competition and worldwide appeal that continues to set benchmarks for teammates and opponents alike.
Last season, Ronaldo finished with 35 goals in 31 league games — the highest in the Saudi Pro League and his best scoring ratio since leaving Real Madrid. Al-Nassr’s average home attendance climbed to over 24,000, a 30% increase year-on-year, underscoring how his presence translates directly into crowd and broadcast growth.
Cristiano Ronaldo - Superhero
Ronaldo’s impact on Al-Nassr has transcended much more than his goals count. As per recent match reports, his motivation and rigour on the training pitch have set a new standard for the young players. At 40, the forward goes at the same level for every match he used for European top-flight leagues and such consistency is still very much bearing fruit. His leadership has been particularly prominent when the team is under a tight squeeze, when his poise has seen Al-Nassr through early trials.
Even when he is not on the scoresheet, Ronaldo’s talent for creating space for others remains really crucial. His teammates repeatedly testify to his professionalism, saying he is first at training, last off and a complete professional. Each goal, assist and wave of encouragement toward the supporters reminds us that Al-Nassr’s intentions are still just as voracious.
If there was ever any uncertainty over how long he might last, Ronaldo’s preseason obliterated that. Reports from training camps agreed on his remarkable physical condition, which is a testament to his unwavering dedication to nutrition, recovery and diligent preparation.
ESPN reporters commented on how quickness and sense of timing are still good, even when facing young centre-backs. The forward’s own flexibility has proved crucial, too; he’s evolved from a true striker-type player to a more flexible attacking asset who switches between a conductor role and goal poacher, according to match requirements.
This transition also reflects Al-Nassr's wider tactical maturity. Under head coach Luís Castro, Al-Nassr have adopted a more possession-based structure, using overlapping full-backs and a deeper midfield pivot. This has allowed Ronaldo to drop slightly into playmaking zones, while still finishing moves inside the box — a balance that has rejuvenated his involvement across 90 minutes. Better ball movement and defensive organisation make the team look more complete than they have for some years past. For Ronaldo, that allows more freedom to dictate games creatively rather than living off his finishing alone.
In the first rounds of the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo again demonstrated that age doesn't matter regarding performance. His goals have been from everywhere: headers, long-distance shots and calm finishes inside the box. Every play sets stadiums around the nation ablaze, attracting die-hard supporters and new curiosity seekers looking for a view of a legend at his craft.
His celebration antics are still as signature as anything, immediately identifiable globally by supporters. Yet, behind the drama, Ronaldo’s composure on the biggest occasions persists as the essence of Al-Nassr’s personality. Younger players such as Gabriel and Brozović have cited his influence in adjusting the pace and demands of the league.
The Saudi Pro League's increasing global recognition has a lot to do with Ronaldo’s appeal. His games with Al-Nassr always command more viewership, especially across Europe and Asia. For the league promoters, Ronaldo’s sustained brilliance reaffirms the success of their investment policy, establishing prestige through celebrity muscle massaging local talent.
The league’s narrative isn’t built on Ronaldo alone. Al-Hilal, led by Neymar and Aleksandar Mitrović, and Al-Ittihad, powered by Karim Benzema, have deepened the competitive field. Matches between these clubs now attract global TV audiences comparable to major European fixtures — evidence that the Saudi project’s reach extends far beyond one superstar.
The hype for Al-Nassr’s crusade has been carried forward into the wagering realm, with football fanatics looking at more exciting ways to connect with games. Websites previously presenting decent odds and sign-up incentives have witnessed growing interest since the league's inception.
Fans seeking to back Ronaldo and Al-Nassr often turn to major sportsbooks with attractive welcome promotions. For example, new users can claim bonuses that enhance their initial wagers, allowing them to explore match markets, goal scorer bets and live in-play opportunities. Some sites provide flexible bonuses structured as free bets upon registration, giving newcomers a taste of the action without immediate risk.
One notable highlight is the William Hill sign-up offer, which includes a generous bundle of free bets once players place an initial qualifying wager. Such promotions have helped bridge the gap between casual viewership and interactive participation, letting fans feel closer to the game while adding an element of strategy and excitement.
Every year Ronaldo plays in the Middle East, a new page is opened in football’s globalisation saga. Previously regarded mainly as a playground for European stars during retirement, the Saudi Pro League is being transformed into a dynamic competition platform.
For Saudi Arabia, football is part of a broader Vision 2030 diversification strategy. The Public Investment Fund’s stake in four major clubs has accelerated the influx of foreign talent, positioning the league as both a sports product and a soft-power instrument to showcase national ambition.
Crowds in Riyadh and throughout the country keep growing, with young supporters and families occupying stadiums hours before kickoff. Social media activity has gone crazy, with Ronaldo’s highlight reels leading the world’s trends within minutes. On X and Instagram, clips from Al-Nassr games often surpass 20 million combined views within 24 hours. Ronaldo’s highlight reels consistently trend across multiple continents, driving international broadcaster interest from platforms like DAZN and beIN Sports. For Al-Nassr, the ambition is simple: vie for domestic and continental titles while forging a closer bond with supporters.
Critics argue that while the league’s spending has captured attention, questions remain over competitive depth and long-term sustainability once marquee names retire. For Ronaldo and Al-Nassr, the challenge is proving that this surge can outlast the headline years and build a genuine footballing heritage.
For Ronaldo, it’s about legacy, setting the tone, inspiring and doing all of it at a level that mirrors the high standard he established at Sporting Lisbon and Madrid. As the season goes on, one thing does not change: wherever Cristiano Ronaldo goes, the world follows. And with Saudi Arabia’s vibrant future for football, he remains the face and the motivation for its most excellent narrative.
If Ronaldo’s time in Saudi Arabia proves anything, it’s that football’s centre of gravity is shifting. Just as he defined eras at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, he is now shaping a league that wants to be the sport’s next frontier — one where ambition meets global attention.
Cristiano Ronaldo next game for Portugal is on October 11, against Ireland, for the the World Cup Qualifiers. You can watch Portugal vs Ireland, Argentina vs Venezuela, Spain vs Georgia, Wales vs Belgium, Estonia vs Italy and Northern Ireland vs Germany, all matches provided from our football live game pages.
Portugal next game:
Portugal vs Ireland kick-off time (11-10-2025):
Beijing (China) | UTC/GMT+7: 02:45
India (New Delhi) | UTC/GMT+4.30: 00:15
Saudi Arabia (Riyadh) | UTC/GMT+2: 21:45
Spain (Madrid) | UTC/GMT+1: 20:45
Portugal and England (Lisbon/London) | UTC/GMT+0: 19:56
Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) | UTC/GMT-3: 16:45
New York (United States) | UTC/GMT-4: 15:45
Los Angeles (United States) | UTC/GMT-7: 12:45
Sources: ronaldo7.net / theguardian.com / bbc.com
