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Cristiano Ronaldo may continue to shatter records and rake in goals in the Saudi Pro League, but not everyone is convinced he still belongs among football’s elite. Former France international and Barcelona midfielder Emmanuel Petit has delivered a bold verdict on the Portuguese icon, claiming that Ronaldo is “done at the highest level” following his latest contract extension with Al-Nassr.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s new mega deal raises eyebrows
Speculation surrounded Ronaldo’s future after he hinted that his “chapter is over” following the 2023-24 Saudi Pro League season. Rumors swirled of a potential switch to rivals Al-Hilal, but the 40-year-old forward silenced the noise by signing a new multi-million-pound contract with Al-Nassr.
According to reports, Ronaldo’s fresh deal is valued at an astronomical £492 million, securing his place as the highest-paid athlete in the world. With financial terms unmatched by any European club, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner appears fully committed to finishing his career in the Middle East.
Despite his age, Cristiano Ronaldo remains a dominant force on the pitch, having scored 35 goals in 41 appearances last season. He also played a crucial role in helping Portugal lift the Nations League, proving he still has the drive and fitness to compete at the international level.
Emmanuel Petit: “He’s done at the highest level”
However, for Petit, Ronaldo’s impressive numbers in Saudi Arabia don’t equate to relevance in top-tier European football. Speaking to Escapist Magazine, the 1998 World Cup winner didn’t mince his words.
“Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he is done at the highest level with his new Saudi deal, but he confirmed that when he left Manchester United,” said Petit.
The former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder acknowledged Cristiano Ronaldo’s enduring form but suggested his decision to stay in Saudi Arabia is a clear signal that his days at the top level are behind him.
“Having said that, no one could have matched the crazy money he is being paid, but at 40 he is still playing well and performing for the national team,” Petit added.
“I expect to see him at the World Cup next year but I’m not shocked he is staying in Saudi, no one could’ve matched those terms. They are crazy.”
A divisive legacy in his final chapters
While fans continue to admire Cristiano Ronaldo's relentless commitment to fitness and his goalscoring prowess, critics argue that his presence in Europe’s top leagues is sorely missed. Petit's comments reflect a broader sentiment among football purists who believe the game’s greatest names should bow out on Europe’s biggest stages — not in leagues far from the spotlight.
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