Cristiano Ronaldo Reacts to Karim Benzema's Decision to Join Al-Ittihad

Al-Nassr's forward player, Cristiano Ronaldo has reacted to the decision of Karim Benzema to join him in the Saudi Arabia pro league.

The Portuguese international joined Al-Nassr in January 2023 after his relationship with Manchester United hit rock bottom. Ronaldo said in an interview as reported by Football Daily on Wednesday, June 8, 2023, that he always knew that his move to Saudi Arabia will make other European players make the switch.

Benzema shocked the football world when he announced that he will join Al-Ittihad from Real Madrid. The French International signed a three-year deal that will keep him at the club until 2026, he is expected to earn €200 million per year.

Ronaldo is quoted saying, "I knew that me going to Saudi Arabia would open a box and I was not wrong. I’m sure in a couple of years or three, this league is going to be one of the most important leagues in the world. I am sure in a couple of years or three, this league is going to be one of the most important leagues in the world. Karim left already and I am 1000 percent sure that many more players will."

Lionel Messi was also linked with a move to the Gulf nation but the Argentine chose to join MLS side, Inter Miami. However, Premier League stars like N'Golo Kante, Riyad Mahrez, and Wilfred Zaha are reportedly close to joining Benzema and Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia.

🗣️ “I knew that me going to Saudi Arabia would open a box and I wasn’t wrong. I’m sure in a couple of years or three, this league is going to be one of the most important leagues in the world.”

Cristiano Ronaldo says his move to Saudi Arabia was the start of a movement. 🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/vxTAWdA7WV

— Football Daily (@footballdaily) June 8, 2023