Al-Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada has offered a response to Cristiano Ronaldo’s growing frustration in Saudi Arabia.
The chief insisted there is no preferential treatment between the league’s elite clubs and hinted at how future superstar signings could unfold.
Transfer News Live earlier reported that Ronaldo had refused to play for Al Nassr this week. He is angered by what he believes is a financial imbalance in how the Saudi Pro League operates.
His frustration had intensified following Karim Benzema’s sudden switch from Al Ittihad to title rivals Al Hilal during the winter window.
So, the Public Investment Fund owns all four major Saudi clubs, Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad and Al Ahli.
However, Benzema’s move has sparked claims of favouritism, with Ronaldo allegedly furious that Al Nassr were not afforded similar backing.
Calzada dismissed those suggestions and appeared to take a subtle dig at Ronaldo’s reaction. He told Cadena SER:
“We should ask him what’s wrong. Al Hilal is the most powerful club in Saudi Arabia.
“We have three sources of funding for transfers: merchandising, the government program to sign top players, and the Prince, who supports the club to obtain significant resources.”
Reports have indicated that billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal funded Benzema’s transfer.
Calzada also pointed out that they had already spent heavily in previous windows. Al-Nassr signed Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman, and added Inigo Martinez on a free transfer.
Now, the Saudi Pro League is planning something big again. They are eyeing a move for Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian is yet to sign a contract with Real Madrid.
Calzada confirmed Al Hilal are not currently in talks but acknowledged that the Saudi Pro League will try to bring the Real Madrid superstar to middle-east. He said.
“In our case, there are no talks. But the CEO of the Saudi league, whenever asked, says that if he’s available, he’ll try to bring him in.”
There would be an absolute irony if Ronaldo’s discontent ultimately opens the door for the next global superstar to arrive in Saudi Arabia.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
