Cristiano Ronaldo is at the centre of fresh controversy in the Saudi Pro League after choosing not to play in Al Nassr’s 1-0 win over Al Riyadh on Monday.
The top scorer sits out by choice, not due to injury or fatigue, in what is widely seen as a direct protest against league decision-makers.
Reports state that Ronaldo deliberately removes himself from the matchday squad because of anger over recent transfer dealings. The trigger is the move of former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema, who leaves Al Ittihad and joins rival club Al Hilal, further strengthening the current league leaders.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Saudi Pro League transfer tension
Ronaldo’s frustration is said to focus on the Public Investment Fund, which controls Saudi Arabia’s four biggest clubs. According to those close to the situation, Ronaldo complains about a “lack of competitive parity” in how resources are shared, with Al Hilal receiving stronger backing compared with Al Nassr during the winter window.
Al Hilal manage to secure Benzema on a free transfer, even though the squad already includes high-profile names such as Darwin Nunez and Theo Hernandez. The signing underlines how strongly Al Hilal are supported at the moment. In contrast, Al Nassr close the window with only one incoming player, 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Hayder Abdulkareem.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Saudi Pro League power balance
According to reports, Ronaldo argues that “competitive balance” must stay intact for the league to grow. Despite this stance, the PIF-backed deal for Benzema is completed just before the transfer deadline. As a response, Ronaldo chooses to miss the Al Riyadh match, which many interpret as a symbolic stand against the current power structure.
Key winter business in the Saudi Pro League is outlined below, highlighting the contrast that troubles Ronaldo.
| Club | Player | Move type |
|---|---|---|
| Al Hilal | Karim Benzema | Free transfer |
| Al Nassr | Hayder Abdulkareem | Signed, 21-year-old midfielder |
Tensions at Al Nassr are not limited to transfers. Local reports claim sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo, both Portuguese, have their authority effectively “frozen” by the club’s board. The shift follows manager Jorge Jesus stating that the club lacks the “political power” enjoyed by Al Hilal in league matters.
Ronaldo is described as still fiercely driven and now feels isolated in the title race, especially as Al Hilal strengthen again. While Ronaldo sits out, Sadio Mane scores the only goal against Al Riyadh, giving Al Nassr three important points. Attention now turns to Friday’s crucial clash with Al Ittihad, and whether Ronaldo returns to the pitch.