Cristiano Ronaldo has taken dramatic action in Saudi Arabia's football scene, reportedly going on strike and intervening to block a major transfer involving his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema.
Ronaldo's Frustration Boils Over
The Portuguese superstar, who joined Al Nassr in 2023, is growing increasingly frustrated with his club's lack of transfer activity during the current window. Despite his high-profile arrival, Al Nassr have yet to win the Saudi Pro League title during his tenure, and Ronaldo believes the club's rivals are strengthening significantly while his own side stands still.
The Benzema Situation
According to reports, Ronaldo has specifically targeted Al Hilal's pursuit of Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad. The French striker appears set to leave his current club after being disappointed by their latest contract offer, which would reportedly see him playing for minimal financial compensation.
Al Hilal, who have been recent champions in Saudi Arabia, are ready to swoop for the Ballon d'Or winner. However, the deal is currently on hold with Saudi authorities reportedly stepping in, influenced by pressure from Ronaldo and his camp.
Power Plays and Financial Realities
The situation reveals the complex power dynamics within Saudi football. The Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al Nassr, isn't willing to grant the funds necessary for Benzema's transfer to proceed. Meanwhile, Prince Al Waleed, who is set to become the outright owner of Al Hilal this summer, could potentially use his personal wealth to finance the deal - an option not available to Al Nassr.
Ronaldo's Strike Action
Ronaldo made his dissatisfaction clear by not featuring in Al Nassr's Saudi Pro League match against Al Riyadh on Monday. The absence wasn't due to injury or managerial decisions - manager Jorge Jesus reportedly still favours the Portuguese star - but rather a deliberate protest against the club's transfer policy.
This represents a significant escalation in Ronaldo's campaign for reinforcements, effectively putting his playing career on hold until he sees meaningful action in the transfer market.
The Transfer Window Contrast
The difference between the two clubs' transfer activity this window is stark. While Al Nassr have only signed Iraq under-23 midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem - who is yet to make his debut - Al Hilal have been far more active.
Al Hilal's acquisitions include:
- 18-year-old forward Mohamed Meite from Rennais
- Former Arsenal defender Pablo Marí from Fiorentina
- Saudi internationals Murad Al Hawsawi from Al Khaleej
- Sultan Mandash from Al Taawoun
Benzema would represent their fifth major signing of the window, creating a significant competitive imbalance that Ronaldo finds unacceptable.
League Position Pressure
With Al Nassr currently sitting third in the Saudi Pro League table - three points behind leaders Al Hilal - Ronaldo believes immediate reinforcement is crucial for their title ambitions. The prospect of their main rivals adding a player of Benzema's calibre while his own club remains relatively inactive has pushed the situation to breaking point.
This transfer drama highlights the growing tensions within Saudi football as clubs compete for dominance in what has become one of world football's most financially competitive leagues.
