Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly taken dramatic action against his own club, Al-Nassr, by refusing to play in their latest Saudi Pro League match. The football icon's alleged strike comes amid growing fury over transfer dealings within the league, particularly concerning his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema.
Transfer Deadline Day Drama Sparks Outrage
The controversy centres on Karim Benzema's unexpected move to Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr's direct title rivals. On transfer deadline day, league leaders Al-Hilal announced they had signed the 38-year-old French striker from reigning champions Al-Ittihad on an 18-month contract. This free transfer was facilitated by the controversial termination of Benzema's contract in Jeddah.
What makes this situation particularly unusual is that all three clubs involved - Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ittihad - are controlled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). Ronaldo is understood to be directing his anger towards the PIF, believing the transfer unfairly strengthens Al-Hilal's position in the title race.
Benzema's Contentious Exit from Al-Ittihad
Benzema's departure from Al-Ittihad followed a contract dispute, with the club reportedly offering the veteran striker reduced terms as he entered the final six months of his deal. The French international rejected this proposal and was subsequently made to train alone, feeling 'disrespected' by his former employers.
The PIF then sanctioned Al-Hilal's move for Benzema, with sources insisting to the Telegraph that all procedures were followed correctly. However, Ronaldo is reported to be livid about the transfer, which has significantly improved Al-Hilal's odds of winning the league title.
Media Blackout Follows Al-Nassr Victory
Following Al-Nassr's 1-0 victory against Al-Riyadh on Monday, secured by a Sadio Mane goal, manager Jorge Jesus was expected to hold a routine post-match press conference. However, according to Saudi publication Alyaum, Al-Nassr's management ordered all players and staff not to speak to any media outlets.
This media blackout represents an abnormal move for a league actively trying to boost its global appeal and transparency. The cancelled press conference has only heightened speculation about the internal tensions within the club following Ronaldo's reported protest.
What Next for Ronaldo and Al-Nassr?
Al-Nassr's next fixture sees them face Al-Ittihad at home on Friday. Depending on Al-Hilal's result against Al-Akhdoud on Thursday, Jesus's side could potentially go top of the table with a victory. However, whether Ronaldo will feature in this crucial match remains uncertain.
Despite having signed a contract extension until June 2027, many fans and observers are now questioning whether this protest marks the beginning of the end for Ronaldo's time in Saudi Arabia. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has only lifted the Arab Club Champions Cup since his acrimonious departure from Manchester United in December 2022, and is still chasing his first major trophy in the Middle East.
The situation raises significant questions about player power, league governance, and the growing tensions within the Saudi Pro League as it continues its ambitious expansion on the global football stage.
