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Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Nacho, the captain of Real Madrid, has highlighted the significant impact of Cristiano Ronaldo on Saudi Arabian football, believing it will elevate the Saudi Pro League to one of the world’s premier leagues.
This statement comes as Real Madrid prepares to face Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup 2024 final at Al Awwal Park, where Ronaldo has been playing for Al Nassr for the past year.
Nacho, who defended alongside the five-time Ballon d’Or winner at Real Madrid from 2011 to 2018, winning two Spanish Super Cups together, took the opportunity to praise Ronaldo during the pre-final press conference.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is among the greatest in the world. His impact in the Saudi League has been enormous, attracting other top players to the Kingdom. I foresee the Saudi League becoming one of the world’s best in the coming years,” said Nacho.
The El Clasico final, scheduled for 10 p.m. Saudi Arabian time on Sunday, is a rematch of last year’s event, where Barcelona emerged victorious over Real Madrid with a 3-1 win.
Nacho expressed his eagerness to captain Real Madrid in the upcoming final, emphasizing the team’s readiness and determination to claim the championship, despite last season’s outcome and current injuries.
Nacho, 33, who has spent his entire career at Real Madrid, is approaching the end of his contract but expressed a strong desire to continue with the club.
“I’m very happy at Real Madrid and more involved this season. If offered a contract renewal tomorrow, I would sign without hesitation,” he stated.
Real Madrid secured their spot in the Spanish Super Cup final after a remarkable comeback against Atletico Madrid, winning 5-3 in extra time in Riyadh.
Barcelona, on the other hand, defeated Osasuna 2-0 in their semi-final, setting the stage for the thrilling El Clasico showdown in the Saudi capital.
The upcoming final marks the fourth occasion the Spanish Super Cup is being hosted in Saudi Arabia, with previous wins by both Real Madrid and Barcelona, highlighting the growing global significance of the event in the region.
