Neymar Cristiano Ronaldo started it all

Cristiano Ronaldo is largely responsible for the transformation of Saudi Arabia's Pro League, believes Brazilian star Neymar, who has made a transfer to local Al-Hilal. The 31-year-old Brazilian signed a two-year deal with the Riyadh club on Tuesday after spending six years at Paris Saint-Germain in a deal believed to be worth €90m.

"I believe that Cristiano Ronaldo is at the beginning of all this. Today we see how the championship is growing every day," said the Brazilian. Transfers to Saudi Arabia this summer include Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and Manchester City's Riyad Mahrez.

"I'm excited and I think that playing against top players in other clubs motivates you to be even better. It's like playing against Ronaldo, Benzema, Firmino," Neymar thinks. Al-Hilal have signed Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus on a one-year deal, as well as former Wolverhampton captain Ruben Neves, Serbian Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly, as well as Brazilian striker Malcom.

"I think it's important to have a quality team. Obviously that helps with some decisions during your career," added Neymar. "I am excited to write a new story and pursue new goals with the club and my team-mates - winning many trophies," added the Brazilian. Al-Hilal will play Al-Feiha in the next round of the Saudi Arabian Championship on Saturday.