Cristiano Ronaldo says Saudi Pro League 'will be one of the best leagues' in the world in 5-7 years

Cristiano Ronaldo says the Saudi Pro League will be one of the most competitive leagues in the world in 'five, six or seven' years.

Ronaldo has been plying his trade in Saudi Arabia's top flight following his move from Manchester United, where he had his contract terminated.

He's already bagged nine goals in eight games in the Middle East and admits he has been pleasantly surprised about the league.

What's more, the 38-year-old believes the Saudi Pro League will be one of the 'most competitive leagues' in the world in five-seven years.

Cristiano Ronaldo in action for Al Nassr. Image: Alamy

"I have been pleasantly surprised. Foreign players have different qualities," he said. "Five, six or seven years from now it will be the fourth or fifth most competitive league in the world if they continue with this same plan.

"I’m playing, I’m having minutes."

Ronaldo isn't the only high-profile player playing in Saudi, with the likes of David Ospina, Luiz Gustavo, Cristian Tello and Ever Banega also in the league.

Needless to say, Ronaldo's bold claim about the Saudi Pro League sent social media wild.

One Twitter user joked: "In 567 years?"

A second tweeted: "Now take out the commas from the "5,6,7 years", that's what he meant.. 567 years."

A third argued: "The amount of casuals in the replies are sending me. People swear football is only played in Europe."

A fourth said: "Even if he meant 'in 567 years', it would still be a lie."

Another commented: "People crying in the comments like there aren't many big clubs owned by Arabs it's not surprising that it will be in the top in the future since they invest in it."

Ronaldo's contracted at Al Nassr until 2025, having left Europe for Saudi.

Will his move inspire other European-based stars to make the switch, too? Watch this space.