Cristiano Ronaldo was once again conspicuously absent from the Al Nassr squad for their AFC Champions League Two fixture against Arkadag in Turkmenistan, with reports indicating his dissatisfaction over the club's January transfer business is the primary cause. The 41-year-old Portugal captain has now missed two consecutive Saudi Pro League matches, against Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad, amplifying concerns about his future with the team.
Fan Support and Training Updates
In a show of solidarity, fans at Al-Awwal Park on Friday raised yellow signs featuring Ronaldo's name and iconic number seven during the seventh minute of the game. Despite his exclusion from the last-16 first leg line-up, Al Nassr's social media accounts on Wednesday morning posted images of Ronaldo training with teammates in Riyadh, suggesting a potential return to action soon.
Transfer Discontent and Rival Moves
Ronaldo is reportedly unhappy with the Saudi Public Investment Fund for failing to invest in Al Nassr during the winter transfer window. This frustration is compounded by the fact that rivals Al Hilal, which is also 75 per cent majority-owned by the PIF, secured the signing of his former Real Madrid team-mate Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad, highlighting a perceived imbalance in squad strengthening efforts.
League Warning and Upcoming Fixtures
The Saudi Pro League has issued a stern warning to Ronaldo, stating that "no individual – however significant – determines decisions beyond their own club," emphasising the league's authority over player and club matters. Al Nassr's next league match is scheduled for Saturday against Al Fateh, where Ronaldo's participation remains uncertain amid the ongoing transfer saga.
