Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly decided to boycott Al Nassr, refusing to play in their upcoming Saudi Pro League matches. The 40-year-old forward, who joined the club in 2023 after leaving Manchester United, is said to be protesting the way the Public Investment Fund (PIF) manages his team compared to rival clubs.
Ronaldo is believed to be frustrated by the lack of signings during the winter transfer window. Journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that his absence was not due to injury or fitness issues. “Cristiano Ronaldo is fully fit and his absence is not related to physical issues or workload or fitness management,” Romano said.
According to the Portuguese magazine A Bola, Ronaldo is not happy with Al Nassr’s limited transfer activity. The club’s only signing this winter has been Haydeer Abdulkareem, a 21-year-old midfielder from Iraq. A source told the newspaper: “Cristiano Ronaldo is complaining about the lack of investment in the Al Nassr club. Jorge Jesus has not received the requested additions.”
Meanwhile, rivals like Al Hilal have strengthened their squads. According to reports, Ronaldo believes that Al Nassr is not part of PIF’s investment strategy, despite his status as the face of Saudi football.
Additionally, Turkish journalist Yagız Sabuncuoglu reported that Ronaldo is against the possibility of Karim Benzema moving to Al Hilal, saying that it would spoil the fair competition. Benzema himself has refused to play for Al-Ittihad amid contract disputes, which is increasingly disturbing the balance of the league.
Al Nassr face Al-Ittihad on Friday, but Ronaldo’s absence could affect their title race.
