Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly refused to play in Al-Nassr’s next match due to frustration over the Saudi Pro League club’s lack of transfer activity, with the Portuguese star unhappy with the club
Cristiano Ronaldo is allegedly set to refuse to play in Al Nassr’s forthcoming fixture against Al Riyadh due to his frustration with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) over insufficient transfer business at the club.
The 40-year-old has been the face of the Saudi Pro League since his arrival at Al-Nassr in December 2022 after his second spell at Manchester United came to an end. While other major stars have followed his lead to the Middle East, it appears the Portugal legend is now far from content, with reports suggesting he’ll snub Al-Nassr’s Monday clash.
Portuguese publication A Bola claims Ronaldo is frustrated with PIF’s transfer dealings compared to their competitors, particularly Al-Hilal, who are reportedly on the verge of securing Karim Benzema’s signature.
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The former Real Madrid icon is reportedly planning to make his displeasure known by essentially downing tools for Al-Nassr’s upcoming fixture.
It’s also believed Ronaldo’s anger stems from the reduced influence of sporting director Simao Coutinho and chief executive Jose Semedo, whose authority was diminished following a board meeting last month.
Al-Nassr boss Jorge Jesus has managed to bring in only young midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem to bolster his squad. He recently suggested the club’s finances “weren’t good” amid questions surrounding their transfer dealings.
“I spoke about the winter period,” Jesus said. “We don’t have any openings for foreign players, and the financial situation at Al-Nassr is not good and doesn’t allow it. I hope that one or two, maybe three players can join us.”
Ronaldo penned a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr last June, tying him to the club until the summer of 2027.
The Portugal skipper has netted more than 100 goals since arriving at the club after an acrimonious departure from Old Trafford, but has failed to steer Al-Nassr to a coveted 10th domestic crown.