FIFA has lifted the player registration ban it imposed on Al-Nassr on December 19 over a €9 million unpaid installment for Aymeric Laporte's transfer, following the club's quick settlement. The move clears the path for reinforcements for Cristiano Ronaldo's unbeaten Saudi Pro League leaders ahead of the January window.
The ban stemmed from a missed August 31 payment to Manchester City for Laporte, who later joined Athletic Bilbao. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported FIFA's confirmation of full compliance and permanent lift on December 22, just three days after imposition.
Al-Nassr top the SPL with nine straight wins and have reached the 2025–26 AFC Champions League Two knockouts. The winter window opens January 5 to February 2, enabling pursuits amid expiring contracts for Marcelo Brozović, Sadio Mané, and Iñigo Martínez in June 2026. Coach Jorge Jesus may target a striker to support Ronaldo, with Brazilian duo Bento and Wesley linked to exits.
Ronaldo, back from Arab Cup break, skips the AFC clash with Al Zawraa SC but plays Al Okhdood on December 27.
In other club news, Al-Nassr's women's team beat Al Ahli 2–0 to win the Women’s Premier Challenge Cup, earning Ronaldo's supportive emojis on X.
