Football legends may retire, but their influence never fades. Majed Abdullah, one of the most iconic figures in Saudi Arabian football, has once again made headlines—this time for his outspoken comments on Al Nassr’s coach Luis Castro, and his support of Cristiano Ronaldo. Abdullah’s recent statements have reignited interest in his extraordinary legacy and brought his perspective on modern football into the spotlight.
Known as the “Arabian Jewel” and even “The Arabian Pelé,” Majed Abdullah’s sharp critique of Castro after a frustrating draw between Al Nassr and Al-Ahly in the Saudi Roshan League. Despite Al Nassr’s difficulties, Abdullah defended Ronaldo and emphasized the Portuguese star’s important role in the team. As Ronaldo continues to break records in the Saudi Pro League, as more and more football fans worldwide bet on Saudi Arabia’s games, Abdullah’s insights remind us of the high value of experience and leadership, especially in challenging times.
Majed’s Unparalleled Legacy
For fans who might be unfamiliar with the weight of Abdullah’s words, it’s important to understand his stature. Majed Abdullah isn’t just another former player—he is Saudi Arabia’s greatest footballer, boasting a career that spanned from the late 1970s to the 1990s. As a striker for Al Nassr and the Saudi national team, Abdullah scored over 250 goals, including 72 goals in 117 games for his country—making him the nation’s top scorer to this day.
Abdullah’s contributions were instrumental in shaping Saudi football on the global stage. His leadership helped guide the national team to their first-ever Asian Cup win in 1984, a moment that remains etched in Saudi football history. His prolific scoring and relentless pursuit of excellence earned him recognition from the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS), further cementing his place as a footballing legend, not only in Saudi Arabia but across Asia.
Cristiano Ronaldo and the SPL Records
Abdullah’s recent comments came shortly after Ronaldo set a new Saudi Pro League record, scoring 35 goals in a single season on May 27, 2024. With this incredible feat, he surpassed Hamdallah’s previous record and proved once again that Ronaldo still possesses great talent, even at the age of 39.
Majed Abdullah, reflecting on Ronaldo’s achievement, spoke with admiration. On The Nassr Zone via X, he said, “Age has no role in a player’s performance as long as passion is present. Ronaldo is an example to follow, and I am happy for his new record… We wait for him next season to break his current record.” Abdullah’s words underscore Ronaldo’s role as a leader, both on and off the pitch, praising his ability to inspire and guide Al Nassr through a demanding season.
While Abdullah’s critique of Castro has grabbed attention, his defense of Ronaldo’s contributions highlights a broader theme. Ronaldo, much like Abdullah in his prime, is seen as a leader who elevates the entire team. His legacy in the Saudi Pro League is being shaped by more than just goals—it’s about his influence and experience.
The Al Nassr Connection
Majed Abdullah’s ties to Al Nassr run deep, having spent his entire career with the club. His loyalty to the team is part of what makes his recent critique of coach Luis Castro particularly resonant. After last Al Nassr’s 1-1 draw with Al-Ahly, Abdullah openly called for a change in the club’s leadership. Speaking on SSC, he said, “For me, Al Nassr has not changed during the current season under Castro’s leadership, so he must leave, but it currently seems difficult, given the challenges that await the team in the coming period.”
Abdullah went on to suggest that a national coach might be a better fit, adding, “It is not possible to rely on a foreign coach to replace Castro at the present time, but it is possible. The administration should contract with a national technical director, but I do not have any information about this matter.” His words reflect the deep concern he has for the club’s future and resonate with Al Nassr’s fanbase, who still see Abdullah as the soul of the team.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence in the Saudi Pro League, alongside other global superstars, has also sparked a rising interest in betting on SPL matches. Fans looking to engage with this excitement are advised to choose reliable bookmakers for football betting, such as those listed on the informational website Arabic-Casinos, where they can also find lists of renowned online casinos and various bonuses. With world-class talent now gracing Saudi teams, the league has gained international attention, driving both viewership and betting activity.
A Lasting Legacy
Even after decades off the pitch, Majed Abdullah’s voice continues to shape discussions in Saudi football. His recent comments about Ronaldo and Castro have sparked a new debate about team management, strategy and the future of Al Nassr. Abdullah’s influence relates not only to his past achievements, but also his ability to lead conversations that influence the present and future of football.
As the Saudi Pro League rises in prominence, with global high-paying superstars like Ronaldo contributing to its growth, it’s players like Majed Abdullah who laid the foundation. His legacy remains a testament to the values that define football: loyalty, leadership, and passion. With the increased popularity of football betting, platforms like Arabic-Casinos provide fans with trusted bookmakers, online casinos, and exclusive bonuses, adding a new dimension to how fans engage with the sport.
In remembering Majed Abdullah’s remarkable career and his thoughtful perspectives on today’s game, we are reminded that the essence of football transcends time. Legends like Majed continue to enrich the sport, their voices echoing through the generations—now influencing not just the game itself but the entire ecosystem surrounding football, including the growing world of online betting.
