Cristiano Ronaldo is anticipated to return to action for Al-Nassr against Al-Ittihad on Friday after refusing to play in their recent win over Al-Riyadh. His absence stems from frustration over the club's limited transfer activity compared to rivals like Al-Hilal, who signed Karim Benzema. Officials hope the 40-year-old Portuguese star will feature in the key Saudi Pro League fixture.
Cristiano Ronaldo's recent absence from Al-Nassr's squad has sparked widespread speculation in Saudi Arabian football. The Portugal forward sat out Monday's 1-0 Saudi Pro League victory over Al-Riyadh, reportedly due to dissatisfaction with Al-Nassr's financial support relative to other Public Investment Fund-owned clubs such as Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli, and Al-Ittihad. Sources indicate Ronaldo was frustrated by the club's inactivity during the January transfer window, with Al-Nassr adding only young Iraqi midfielder Hayder Abdulkareem, while Al-Hilal secured Karim Benzema on a free transfer from Al-Ittihad.
Ronaldo, who earns around £500,000 per day and has 18 months left on his contract with a £43 million release clause, is contractually obliged to play unless injured. Senior Saudi officials expect him to end his self-imposed strike for Friday's match against Al-Ittihad, which could propel Al-Nassr to the top of the table, currently one point behind leaders Al-Hilal. Despite reports suggesting he traveled to Portugal, sources confirm Ronaldo remained in Riyadh and has not been featured on the club's social media since Sunday.
The situation escalated with Al-Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada's comments, relishing Benzema's arrival. "We were given a unique opportunity because we were looking for a striker and Benzema is a Ballon d’Or winner and has a spectacular talent," Calzada told El Larguero. He added, "I am not surprised that Benzema has chosen Al-Hilal because it is the most powerful and popular club in Saudi Arabia."
Ronaldo's discontent highlights perceived favoritism among PIF clubs, with Benzema, the current Saudi Pro League Player of the Year, joining on an 18-month deal. If Ronaldo continues his absence, FIFA rules under Article 17 could allow Al-Nassr to terminate his contract without the two-year protected period applying, given his age, and seek compensation on his £200 million annual salary. However, officials remain optimistic about his participation, emphasizing his desire to win the league title for the first time.
