Following Cristiano Ronaldo's controversial claim that the Saudi Pro League is better than Ligue 1, a former star has issued a scathing response.
The Portuguese superstar made waves at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai after being named the Best Middle East Player.
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During his acceptance speech, Ronaldo took aim at the French top-flight, dismissively stating: "Saudi League is better than Ligue 1, of course. France only has PSG. The rest are finished.
"Try to sprint in 38, 39, 40-degree weather and see... It is difficult to become champion in Saudi. This year Al Hilal are better, Al Ittihad are top of the league, but I believe we have to push hard to be champions."
These comments ignited controversy, particularly given Ronaldo's high-profile exit from European football in 2022 to join Saudi giants Al Nassr.
While Ronaldo has thrived individually in the Saudi Pro League, his team trails leaders Al Ittihad by 11 points and sits fourth in the standings.
Adil Rami, who retired in 2023 after a career spent largely in France's Ligue 1, was quick to refute Ronaldo's remarks during a live Twitch session."He talks s***," Rami stated bluntly.
"You want me to show you images of the defenders in Saudi Arabia? It's not because he's had a crazy career that as soon as he says something, it's the truth.
"I think it's a PR stunt. We have defenders, they are machines! You put him in Ligue 1, and he gets eaten."
Despite criticising Ronaldo's comments, Rami admitted his admiration for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, adding: "Cristiano Ronaldo, you know, I'm a fan.
"I'm Team Cristiano Ronaldo, but he made a mistake. When he says that the Saudi championship is better than the one in France, he brings a lot of people with him."
Rami enjoyed a successful spell in Ligue 1, representing clubs like Lille and Marseille, and has first-hand experience of the league's intensity.
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Ligue 1 remains one of Europe's top five leagues, standing alongside the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A, and LALIGA.