The Saudi Pro League is facing its biggest crisis since its inception. Cristiano Ronaldo has officially informed Al-Nassr that he will not play in this Friday’s high-stakes match against Al-Ittihad, citing deep dissatisfaction with the league’s financial distribution and lack of squad investment.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the 41-year-old legend is physically fit and continues to train with the group, but has chosen to sit out as a formal protest. Ronaldo believes the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has favored rivals specifically Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad leaving Al-Nassr without the necessary reinforcements to compete for titles.
The €50 Million Escape Route
With his patience wearing thin, the possibility of a return to Europe or a move to the MLS is suddenly back on the table. Ronaldo’s contract reportedly contains a specific “freedom clause”:
- Release Fee: €50 million.
- Earliest Exit: June 2026.
- The Goal: To ensure he has a competitive project for what could be his final professional seasons.
A Leader’s Protest
Ronaldo’s stance is clear: he wants guarantees that Al-Nassr will be bolstered in the next transfer window. The Portuguese star is reportedly frustrated that while rivals signed players like Karim Benzema (who debuted today for Al-Hilal), his squad has remained stagnant.
Outlets such as The Athletic and Record describe the atmosphere behind the scenes as “toxic,” with the Saudi government now under pressure to intervene before the league’s global image is irreparably damaged.
What’s Next for CR7?
At 41, money is no longer the priority for Ronaldo, who already earns a record-breaking salary. His focus is on winning trophies and maintaining his high standards ahead of the 2026 World Cup. If Al-Nassr fails to meet his demands for a world-class supporting cast, the “CR7 era” in Saudi Arabia could come to an abrupt end this summer.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
