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Former Premier League Star Jermain Defoe Explains Why Saudi League With Cristiano Ronaldo Is Ahead of Lionel Messi’s MLS

Defoe pointed out that even younger talents have been drawn to the Saudi Pro League due to the lucrative contracts available.

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The global football landscape has been significantly influenced by the recent moves of iconic players Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Saudi Pro League, respectively. These transfers have sparked discussions about the competitive stature and appeal of these leagues. Now, former Premier League star Jermain Defoe has weighed in on this topic, offering insights into the growing allure of the Saudi Pro League compared to MLS.

The arrivals of Messi and Ronaldo have undoubtedly elevated the global status of MLS and the Saudi Pro League. However, Defoe suggested that the Saudi league currently holds an edge in attracting top talent, primarily due to its financial capabilities. He noted that while Messi’s move to Inter Miami CF has boosted interest in MLS, the Saudi Pro League’s ability to offer higher wages makes it a more attractive destination for many players.

Saudi Pro League’s Financial Power Gives It an Edge: Defoe

Defoe pointed out that even younger talents, such as Ivan Toney, have been drawn to the Saudi Pro League due to the lucrative contracts available. Defoe emphasized that footballers have relatively short careers, and the opportunity to secure financial stability for themselves and their families is a compelling reason to consider such moves.

Jermain Defoe, who played in MLS with Toronto FC, understands the league well. Speaking to GOAL, the former England international shared his thoughts on whether Messi can outshine Ronaldo once again. He said, “At the minute everyone wants to go to Saudi, don’t they? But that was the idea, if they can get the main man to America, the great Messi, hopefully that would attract the other big names – [Luis] Suarez and all the others that have followed. But, the Saudi one now – it’s Lionel Messi in America and Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia. Not only Cristiano in Saudi, but the money that players can earn over there for themselves and their families.“

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Defoe further said, “It’s difficult to turn it down. Even younger players are willing to go. We saw that with Ivan Toney. There was a lot of noise around that because people were saying: ‘He was in the Euros squad with England, in and amongst the forwards with England, doing well for Brentford, why did he go to Saudi, he’s only 28?’ I feel like you have to be in that situation to understand and realize that as footballers it’s a short career. It’s not just about you, it’s about your family and extended family.”

“There are reasons for things. You just have to respect people’s decisions. I wasn’t surprised when he went. He’s still playing football, enjoying his football, still scoring goals and being appreciated. You just get more money to set yourself up for when you finish football,” Defoe concluded.

What’s Ahead for Messi and Ronaldo?

Cristiano Ronaldo is now in the final year of his contract with Al-Nassr, but he is expected to sign an extension that would keep him at the club until after next summer’s World Cup. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi is also nearing the end of his current Inter Miami deal, though he has an option to extend his stay in South Florida for another year before deciding on his next career move.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Lionel Messi

Messi vs Ronaldo

MLS

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.