Saudi Pro League is eyeing Salah and Fernandes as possible replacements for Ronaldo
The Saudi Pro League is gearing up for a future beyond Cristiano Ronaldo, with Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah recognized as potential new global ambassadors for the league.
Since his sensational arrival in December 2022, Ronaldo has become synonymous with Saudi football, joining Al-Nassr on a free transfer after an illustrious career spanning over two decades at the highest level in Europe.
At 41 years old, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner continues to be the most prominent player to have participated in the Saudi Pro League, contributing significantly to its global visibility and commercial expansion.
Nevertheless, new uncertainty has arisen regarding Ronaldo’s future, even after he signed a lucrative contract extension with Al-Nassr in 2025, which is set to last until next summer.
Reports indicate that tensions have emerged following remarks made by the Portuguese forward, in which he raised concerns about whether the club’s owners, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), offered sufficient support during the latest transfer window in comparison to competing Saudi clubs.
Ronaldo’s contract is said to feature a £43 million exit clause that will activate at the end of the season, potentially paving the way for his departure.
His recent absence from Al-Nassr matches has only intensified speculation. He was not present for the 1-0 league win against Al-Riyadh on Monday and also missed the 2-0 home victory over Al-Ittihad last Friday, raising questions about his position within the squad.
As discussions around Ronaldo’s potential departure intensify, league officials are proactively seeking out notable alternatives.
A source within the Saudi Pro League, as quoted by The i Paper and reported by Sport Bible, indicates that Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes are seen as ideal successors to enhance the league’s global image.
“Salah and Fernandes would be excellent selections, particularly Salah, as he would attract an Arab audience due to his Muslim identity,” the source stated. “Any of those newcomers, along with that young talent, would be a significant boost for us.”
Both players possess remarkable credentials and global allure. Salah has been a pivotal figure for Liverpool since his arrival in the summer of 2017, netting over 250 goals across all competitions and solidifying his status as one of the Premier League’s finest forwards.
His impact reaches far beyond the realm of football, especially throughout the Arab and Muslim communities.
Since his arrival at Old Trafford in January 2020, Fernandes has played a pivotal role for Manchester United.
As the club captain, the Portuguese midfielder has netted over 100 goals for United, showcasing a blend of leadership and steady attacking contributions from the midfield.
Although there is no confirmation regarding either player nearing a transfer, their potential roles as ambassadors highlight the Saudi Pro League’s determination to sustain its global presence, regardless of whether its most prominent star chooses to depart.
