Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly refusing to take part in activities ahead of Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League encounter with city rivals Al-Riyadh scheduled for Monday, amid growing dissatisfaction with the club’s financial backing.
The 40-year-old forward, who earns an estimated £488,000 per day, is said to be displeased with the way Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) oversees and allocates funds to Al-Nassr.
Portuguese newspaper A Bola quoted a source close to the situation as saying Ronaldo feels frustrated by what he views as unequal treatment of Al-Nassr compared to other top Saudi clubs.
The PIF holds a 75 percent stake in four Saudi Pro League sides—Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli—and has played a central role in luring elite international players to the league.
Since Ronaldo arrived in Riyadh in 2023, several high-profile stars, including Karim Benzema, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Riyad Mahrez, have joined rival Saudi teams on lucrative contracts. The Portugal captain reportedly believes Al-Nassr has not enjoyed the same level of investment and support in the transfer market.
That frustration was heightened during the January transfer window, when Al-Nassr’s only signing was 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem. In contrast, Al-Hilal secured Spanish defender Pablo Mari for £1.7 million, completed a £26 million move for Rennes forward Kader Meite, and are close to finalising another £26 million deal for Neom star Saimon Bouabre.
Al-Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus has previously voiced concerns over the financial imbalance, stating that the club “does not have the political power of Al-Hilal.” His remarks reportedly prompted Al-Hilal to push for a suspension of between six months and one year for the manager.
In December, Ronaldo also hinted at the possibility of returning to European football as he continues his pursuit of the landmark 1,000 career goals.
Speaking at an event in Dubai, he said, “My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe.”
“I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going. I will reach the number (1000 goals) for sure, if no injuries.”
What you should know
Cristiano Ronaldo’s reported protest reflects growing tensions within the Saudi Pro League over how resources are distributed among PIF-backed clubs.
While the league has attracted global stars, disparities in transfer spending have sparked internal criticism, particularly from Al-Nassr. Ronaldo’s stance highlights his ambition to keep competing at the highest level as he chases 1,000 career goals, while also raising questions about Al-Nassr’s competitiveness compared to domestic rivals like Al-Hilal.
How the situation is resolved could influence both Ronaldo’s future and Al-Nassr’s standing in Saudi football.
