In a recent interview with his new club, Al-Hilal, Neymar expressed his gratitude towards Cristiano Ronaldo for kickstarting the trend of players leaving Europe to play in Saudi Arabia.
The Brazilian superstar believes that Ronaldo’s bold decision to join Al-Nassr from Manchester United in January paved the way for others to follow suit.
Initially, Ronaldo’s move was met with skepticism, with many labeling it as “crazy.” However, as time passed, it became evident that Ronaldo’s decision had a profound impact on the league.
More and more star players started flocking to Saudi Arabia, enticed by the lucrative financial incentives on offer.
This summer, notable talents such as Karim Benzema, Riyad Mahrez, and Sadio Mane have all made their way to Saudi clubs.
Joining them, Neymar himself will don the blue jersey of Al-Hilal, along with Ruben Neves, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. The league is now brimming with exceptional quality, creating an exciting atmosphere for players and fans alike.
Despite signing a staggering contract worth around £138 million per season, Neymar emphasizes that his decision to join Al-Hilal is driven by the desire to make new sporting history.
While he cherishes the memories and accomplishments he experienced in Europe, he yearns to become a global player who constantly seeks fresh challenges and opportunities.
The Brazilian forward recognizes that the Saudi Pro League is currently teeming with energy and boasts a plethora of quality players.
Neymar acknowledges the extensive list of Brazilian players who have played in Saudi Arabia over the years and believes that it is the desired destination for his next chapter in football.
Choosing Al-Hilal, Neymar finds himself in the embrace of a giant club with an ardent fan base. Recognized as the best club in Asia, Al-Hilal’s stature further solidifies Neymar’s conviction that he has made the right decision at the right time. His goal remains unwavering – to continue winning and scoring goals, both in Saudi Arabia and with Al-Hilal.