Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed the Saudi Pro League is a better league than France's Ligue 1, but the process to reach the 'highest' level will take time.

Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in the Saudi League in December 2022, and has spoken favourably about his time in the Middle East.

This summer a swathe of stars also headed to Saudi Arabia, including Sadio Mane, Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante and Neymar. 

These quality players and the infrastucture already in place have led the Portuguese superstar to say he believes the leage is already better than France's.

The Al Nassr striker revealed his thoughts at a Q & A session during the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Friday.

Speaking on his move to Saudi, Ronaldo said: 'I thought it would be a good move for me. Why not give a chance to another country?

'With my football, with my passion... to change mentalities, why not? I am capable to do that.

'I'm not being arrogant but I said that one year ago. The things change, the world changes, football changes, the rules change, everything changes.

'So my move, I think it was a good move. I feel so happy. Many players moved there. Now coaches, directors, even nutritionists are moving there.

 The 38-year-old continued on to speak about where the league will go, and even claimed it could become one of the best competitions in the world.

'The Saudis are in a process that will take long, but step by step, we will reach the highest level.

'I believe they are going to be in the top three or four in the world. Step by step, I think we are going to reach that.'

'The level right now? To be honest, I think the Saudi league is not worse than France's league in my opinion. 

'In the French league, I think you have two-three teams with a good level. In Saudi, I think it is more competitive.

'They can say what they want. This is just my opinion and I have played there for one year, so I know what I'm talking about.

'But I think right now we are better than France's league.'

Ronaldo is the current top scorer of the league, with 20 goals in 18 appearances, and he scooped three awards at the ceremony. 

The 38-year-old superstar also scored more goals than any other player last season - 54 strikes for club country - and celebrated his achievement by winning the the Globe Soccer Maradona Award for most goals scored in a calendar year. 

However Erling Haaland was crowned Men's Best Player, despite Ronaldo claiming he was 'the best goalscorer.'