Ronaldo: Even a Walk Sparks Icon Status, says Balatan
11 December 2025
Ronaldo: A Masterstroke for the League
Khalid Balatan, the former president of Al Shabab, praised Cristiano Ronaldo, the leader of Al Nassr, saying his signing was a masterstroke for the league.
Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in January 2023 after leaving Manchester United, and he renewed his contract at the end of last season, ensuring his stay until 2027.
Balatan said on TV: "Ronaldo is the jewel of the Saudi league's idea, a cornerstone, and signing him was a masterstroke. I support keeping Ronaldo and leveraging his presence and commercial value."
Technically, he still contributes: he has twice won the Saudi Pro League top scorer award and remains in the title race this season, even at forty.
Balatan added: "Even if he merely walks onto the pitch, he stays an icon and a legend; perhaps he isn’t the best technically, but his glow and the shirt he wears add real value to the league."
Impact on the League
Balatan's remarks highlight Ronaldo's enduring pull and the commercial boost he brings to Saudi football.
Ronaldo's extension through 2027 cements a high-profile collaboration in the league's expansion strategy.
Further Notes
Punchline 1: Ronaldo doesn’t just play the game—he PRs the pitch.
Punchline 2: If charisma were a goal, he’d win in stoppage time every time.
