‘Hundreds of millions’ back Ronaldo, Saudi TV debate hears

Saudi journalist Ahmed Al-Fahad has claimed Cristiano Ronaldo has a larger following than both his current club Al Nassr and their Saudi rivals Al Hilal.

Speaking on the Rotana Sport with Waleed programme, Al-Fahad acknowledged that his view could upset some supporters before arguing that Ronaldo’s personal fanbase was greater than that of Al Nassr.

“Many people may be angered by this, but Cristiano Ronaldo’s following is bigger than Al Nassr’s,” he said.

Al-Fahad said the Portugal captain was supported by hundreds of millions of people worldwide and that his argument was based on established evidence.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is supported by hundreds of millions around the world and has a very large global following,” he added. “The numbers, history and facts prove that, regardless of who denies it.”

His comments prompted a response from fellow Saudi journalist Mohammed Al-Enezi, who rejected the comparison.

“That is not correct. Al Nassr’s popularity is greater than Ronaldo’s,” Al-Enezi said.

He then challenged Al-Fahad by asking whether Ronaldo’s following was also larger than that of Al Hilal.

Al-Fahad answered in the affirmative.

“That is correct. I do not have those complexes,” he said. “I have just said that. I will not create information or a fact of my own. The numbers are in front of everyone, but it is a matter of logic.”

Ronaldo has played for Al Nassr since January 2023, joining the club as a free agent after his contract with former club Manchester United was terminated.