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Cristiano Ronaldo changed the course of the transfer windows after moving to the Saudi Arabian club, Al Nassr. The Portuguese superstar has seemingly sparked a ripple effect among other soccer players to rally for a move to the Gulf country. Subsequently, it has also led to a massive fuss in the soccer world.

Players around the world continue to get linked to join Ronaldo’s domestic forces. While the soccer fraternity continues to slam Middle Eastern clubs for hijacking the transfer window, one of CR7’s opponents recently made a huge admission.

Rival of Cristiano Ronaldo makes huge admission over Gulf transfer chaos

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Following Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’golo Kante, and Ruben Neves have been the latest additions. The list is expected to rise as renowned stars are touted to play on the outskirts of the Middle East. The soccer world isn’t this exodus well, as they are slamming the Arabian country for ruining the balance of the game. One of Ronaldo’s opponents, however, has defended the Saudi Pro League.

via Imago

In an exclusive interview with SO FOOT, Al-Wehda midfielder, Fayçal Fajr and Al-Ittifaq defender Marcel Tisserand discussed the evolving landscape of soccer in their region. Tisserand defended by saying, “Talent drain has always been a problem. What will happen if they decide to buy slightly younger players… It will create controversy. Why not have a continent that can compete with Europe? It is clear that football is universal and is not played only on one continent. Let’s see what it will give!”

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The Al-Ittifaq defender stated that just like Europe, Saudi also has the right to develop its own league. Even if it comes at the cost of signing big names from Europe. While highlighting the consequences of younger players going to the Gulf side, he also insisted on having a different continent that can compete with Europe.

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Has Saudi Arabia killed soccer?

Ever since the evolution of soccer, Europe has been the biggest powerhouse of the beautiful game. Not only has the continent given birth to some of the most legendary and renowned teams, but it has also led to the advent of some serious talents. From Ronaldinho and Zinedine Zidane to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the EU has been a remarkable platform for such legendary players. In fact, it also enjoys a global fan base, thanks to the evergreen popularity of leagues such as the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League.

WATCH THIS STORY | Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Four Goals in a Game

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With interest from Saudi Arabia, players are fawning over big-contract from Middle Eastern clubs. Given the country’s pace to lure soccer stars from Europe, the league’s popularity may increase. Simultaneously, it will be a big problem for European soccer as well.

Do you think Saudi Arabia is killing soccer? Let us know in the comments.

Written by

Abhishek Mishra

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Abhishek Mishra is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. Abhishek's love for soccer began during his childhood days when he spent most of his time playing and watching the sport. His early exposure to soccer earned him many accolades at district and zonal levels, making him a true sports enthusiast.
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Edited by

Jayant Chhabra