Ronaldo vs Messi: Rio Ferdinand on Why He Would Choose Saudi Pro League Over MLS

• Rio Ferdinand does not understand why the Saudi Pro League gets so much criticism
• He defended players going to Saudi Arabia and says he would choose the Saudi Pro League over the MLS
• Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane and other top players have moved to the Saudi Pro League, this year

The debate between the Saudi Pro League and the MLS has been raging since Lionel Messi moved to the USA after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.

Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia earlier this year, and more stars from European stars followed en masse this summer. His former Manchester United teammate Rio Ferdinand has defended Ronaldo's move to the Middle East.

Several stars have followed Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia, namely: Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy, Sadio Mane, Ruben Neves, and Jota. Considering their window closes on September 20th, more top players will join.

Man City Boss Pep Guardiola Says Ronaldo Paved the Way for More Stars to Move to Saudi Arabia

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The aforementioned players received some criticism from fans and pundits for their decision to move to a country accused of having a poor human rights record. The Saudi Pro League has also been called a sportswashing project.

After Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in the MLS, Ronaldo said the Saudi Pro League is better than the American, remarks that drew the ire of fans, per ESPN.

Ferdinand chooses Saudi Pro League

Speaking to Joe, Ferdinand is baffled by all the criticism the Saudi Pro League has received.

“"It's an adventure, they are getting rewarded financially, supremely well and changing their life and future generations. They get a chance to experience a new culture and a new environment. Look at how the media and people dealt with Messi going to America & Cristiano Ronaldo going to Saudi Arabia. When a player goes to America, you greet him, but when a player goes to Saudi, he is attacked. Do you want to tell me that America is a perfect country?"

Real Madrid Boss Carlo Ancelotti Issues Warning About the Saudi Pro League

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“If I had not retired 100%, I would go to Saudi Arabia without thinking & without a doubt.”

The debate will continue when other top stars move there.

Messi scores free kick golazo

Sports Brief recently reported on Messi’s stunning free-kick against FC Dallas on Sunday.

He curled in the set piece from 25 yards out and into the top corner to tie the match at 4-4 in the 85th minute.

Inter Miami went on to win 5-3 in the penalty shootout.