Riyad Mahrez believes Lionel Messi would receive special treatment in the Saudi Pro League if he joins Al-Ahli. Mahrez made this comment days after disagreeing with Cristiano Ronaldo's claim that the SPL is a top-five league.
What did Mahrez say about Messi?
Mahrez admitted it would be a dream to play alongside Messi, who has been linked with a December move to Al-Ahli. He imagined Messi as a playmaker and himself on the wing, making a great duo.
Why did Mahrez disagree with Ronaldo?
Mahrez disagreed with Ronaldo's claim that the SPL is a top-five league, stating that the five big European leagues are ahead. He added that the SPL is not too far off and is making progress.
What does Mahrez think about Ronaldo's achievements?
Mahrez praised Ronaldo for maintaining his form and fitness at the age of 40. He hailed Ronaldo as a legendary player, respecting what he has achieved.
Riyad Mahrez's Al-Ahli had a successful 2024-25 campaign, winning the AFC Champions League. Mahrez received a lot of beatings on the pitch, but he thinks Messi might receive special treatment if he joins the SPL.
Cristiano Ronaldo helped transform the Saudi Pro League after joining Al-Nassr as a free agent in January 2023. His arrival led to numerous top European stars following suit, including Neymar, Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, and Riyad Mahrez.
Mahrez stated that he and Messi would make a great duo, with Messi as a playmaker and himself on the wing. He also said that there is no special protection for dribbling players in the SPL.
Ronaldo believes the Saudi League is among the world's top five leagues and is a superior product to Ligue 1 and Major League Soccer. He made this statement in December 2024, saying that the Saudi League is better than Ligue 1 due to the weather and the presence of top teams.
Mahrez thinks that the SPL is not too far off from the top European leagues and is making progress. He added that the goal is not to be the best league in the world right now, but to compete with the other leagues in the long term.
Riyad Mahrez's comments on Messi and Ronaldo show his respect for the two legendary players. He is excited about the possibility of playing alongside Messi and praises Ronaldo's achievements.
The Saudi Pro League has been gaining attention in recent years, with top European stars joining the league. Mahrez's comments on the league's progress and his desire to play alongside Messi are a testament to the league's growing reputation.
Mahrez's Al-Ahli team has been performing well, winning the AFC Champions League in the 2024-25 season. He is looking forward to the next season and the possibility of playing alongside Messi.
The transfer window is open, and there are rumors about Messi's potential move to Al-Ahli. Mahrez's comments on the matter have sparked interest among football fans, who are eager to see what the future holds for the Saudi Pro League.