Aziz Behich shares his memorable stint alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s surge in football talent and investment.
Aziz Behich couldn’t believe his luck when Melbourne City offered him a $2 million fee to join Al-Nassr on loan for six months last season. Playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo was something he never thought he’d experience. “It was an offer I couldn’t refuse,” Behich recalls. The chance to train with one of the greatest footballers of all time was too good to pass up.
When Behich walked into the club’s training facility, he immediately spotted Ronaldo’s locker. “We were together in the change room, right next to each other,” he says with a chuckle. “So that was a bit of a funny first day.”
Building Bonds Beyond the Pitch
Contrary to the often larger-than-life image of Ronaldo, Behich found him to be surprisingly down-to-earth. “We had a few things in common, other than football – you don’t always want to speak about football,” Behich explains. Both men shared personal battles, with Ronaldo’s mother having battled cancer and Behich’s wife fighting the same disease. These shared experiences fostered a deeper connection between them.
Personal Connections:
- Shared Interests: Both enjoy combat sports like UFC and boxing.
- Mutual Respect: Ronaldo appreciated Behich’s dedication and professionalism.
- Humorous Moments: Light-hearted banter made training sessions enjoyable.
Their camaraderie wasn’t limited to serious conversations. Ronaldo often joined fights and sparring sessions, bringing a sense of humor and lightness to the rigorous training environment. “He loves that a lot – so he’d come in and [Alex] Volkanovski or someone is fighting, and he’s like, ‘You see the Aussie guy?’” Behich shares. These moments not only strengthened their bond but also boosted team morale.
Saudi Arabia’s Football Revolution
Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia in January marked the beginning of a new era for football in the region. Al-Nassr, backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, has transformed into a powerhouse with a whopping $300 million worth of talent. This influx includes stars like Marcelo Brozovic, Sadio Mané, and Aymeric Laporte, all drawn by the lucrative salaries and the promise of being part of something big.
Al-Nassr’s Star-Studded Roster:
| Player | Position | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Cristiano Ronaldo | Forward | Multiple Ballon d’Ors, Champions League titles |
| Marcelo Brozovic | Midfielder | Key player for Inter Milan and Croatia |
| Sadio Mané | Forward | Premier League Champion, Africa Player of the Year |
| Aymeric Laporte | Defender | Premier League Champion with Manchester City |
The club’s investment strategy has not only attracted seasoned veterans but also promising talents, turning the Saudi Pro League into a competitive arena. “Everything still revolves around him, for good and for bad,” Behich notes about Ronaldo’s central role in Al-Nassr.
The Impact of High-Profile Signings
Saudi Arabia’s bold moves in the transfer market have had a ripple effect across the football world. Players in their prime, like Riyad Mahrez and Neymar, have also joined Saudi clubs, further elevating the league’s profile. This strategy has put Saudi Arabia on the global football map, attracting attention from fans and media alike.
Notable Players in the Saudi Pro League:
- Riyad Mahrez (Al-Hilal): Renowned for his dribbling and playmaking skills.
- Ivan Toney (Al-Ittihad): A prolific striker with a knack for scoring crucial goals.
- Roberto Firmino (Al-Ahli): Known for his versatility and creativity on the field.
- N’Golo Kante (Al-Ittihad): Celebrated for his relentless work rate and defensive prowess.
These signings have not only enhanced the quality of play but also increased the league’s competitiveness. The presence of such high-caliber players has inspired local talent and raised the standard of football in Saudi Arabia.
Training and Professional Growth
For Behich, training alongside Ronaldo and other top-tier players was an invaluable experience. “When it was down to business, it had to be perfect. Everything had to be 100 percent,” he emphasizes. The professionalism and dedication of his teammates pushed him to elevate his own performance.
Ronaldo’s influence extended beyond his on-field prowess. His commitment to fitness and excellence set a benchmark for the entire team. “Watching Ronaldo train was inspiring. His discipline and work ethic are unmatched,” Behich shares. This environment fostered a culture of continuous improvement and resilience within the squad.
The Future of Saudi Football
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious investments in football signal a long-term vision of becoming a major player in the global sports arena. The Saudi Public Investment Fund’s commitment has turned clubs like Al-Nassr into magnets for international talent, ensuring sustained growth and competitiveness.
- Enhancing League Quality: Attracting top players to raise the standard of the Saudi Pro League.
- Youth Development: Investing in local talent to build a strong foundation for the future.
- Global Partnerships: Establishing connections with major football clubs and organizations worldwide.
- Infrastructure Improvement: Upgrading stadiums and training facilities to meet international standards.
These goals reflect Saudi Arabia’s dedication to transforming its football landscape, making it more appealing to both players and fans globally. The influx of talent and the emphasis on professional development are key drivers behind this transformation.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the Saudi football revolution presents numerous opportunities, it also comes with its set of challenges. Balancing the influx of foreign talent with the development of local players is crucial. Additionally, maintaining competitive integrity and ensuring sustainable growth are essential for the league’s long-term success.
Behich acknowledges these challenges but remains optimistic. “The potential here is incredible. With the right strategies, Saudi football can truly shine on the global stage,” he states. The collaborative efforts of clubs, players, and the Saudi Tourism Authority will play a pivotal role in overcoming these hurdles.
