Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly concluded his strike action at Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, but the football superstar remains deeply frustrated by a gloating message from former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema. The 41-year-old Portuguese forward refused to play in matches against Al-Ittihad and Al-Riyadh as a dramatic protest against several critical issues at the club.
The Strike and Its Causes
Ronaldo's industrial action was a direct response to Al-Nassr's remarkably quiet January transfer window, especially when compared to their title rivals. While Al-Hilal splashed significant cash to sign Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad, along with Rennes star Mohamed Meite, former Arsenal defender Pablo Mari, and Saudi internationals Murad Al Hawsawi and Sultan Mandash, Al-Nassr remained conspicuously inactive in the market.
Internal Power Struggles
The football legend was also furious about the diminished influence of his key allies within the club's hierarchy. Chief executive Jose Semedo and director of football Simão Coutinho had seen their power reduced, which contributed significantly to Ronaldo's decision to go on strike. Following intense showdown talks, both Semedo and Simao have now been handed back their previous authority, paving the way for Ronaldo's return to the starting lineup against Al-Fateh this weekend.
Benzema's Provocative Message
According to reports from The Telegraph, Ronaldo's mood was further soured by a gloating message from Karim Benzema. The French striker, who secured a lucrative move to league leaders Al-Hilal, reportedly boasted about receiving a substantial pay rise and joining what he believes will be this season's Saudi Pro League champions. This message arrived while Ronaldo was already protesting Al-Nassr's transfer inactivity, creating additional tension between the former teammates.
Competitive Landscape
The contrast between the two clubs' transfer strategies is stark. Benzema moved from seventh-place Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal, who currently sit one point clear of Ronaldo's Al-Nassr at the top of the league table. This strategic strengthening of their main rivals has left Ronaldo questioning Al-Nassr's ambition and competitive approach, despite both clubs being owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Future Uncertainties
While Ronaldo's immediate future with Al-Nassr appears secure following the resolution of his strike, underlying tensions persist. The football icon has a £43 million release clause in his contract, with European and Major League Soccer clubs reportedly monitoring his situation with interest. A summer transfer remains a distinct possibility should the current issues not be fully resolved.
Managerial Concerns
Adding to the uncertainty, Al-Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus has made it clear that he will not sign a new contract until he knows Ronaldo's long-term plans. According to reports from Al-Riyadiyah, Jesus will only commit his future to the club if Ronaldo remains to fulfil his contract until 2027, highlighting the Portuguese forward's immense influence within the organization.
Financial and Structural Context
Cristiano Ronaldo earns approximately £488,000 per day from Al-Nassr, equivalent to £180 million annually, making him by far the biggest star in the Saudi Pro League. His strike action was significant enough to force Saudi football authorities to issue an official statement clarifying how PIF-owned clubs operate independently within established financial frameworks.
A spokesperson emphasized that "clubs have their own boards, their own executives and their own football leadership. Decisions on recruitment, spending and strategy sit with those clubs, within a financial framework designed to ensure sustainability and competitive balance." The statement continued, "Recent transfer activity demonstrates that independence clearly. One club strengthened in a particular way. Another chose a different approach. Those were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters."
