The Saudi Pro League has been plunged into a state of high drama as Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly refused to take the field for Al-Nassr. The reason? A deepening frustration with the league’s management and the imminent arrival of Karim Benzema at arch-rivals Al-Hilal.
According to renowned journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, the Portuguese icon has voiced strong opposition to Benzema’s transfer from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal. Ronaldo allegedly claims that allowing the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner to join the current league leaders would “damage the fair competition environment” of the league.
The PIF Favoritism Controversy
The tension stems from how the Public Investment Fund (PIF)—which owns 75% of the league’s “Big Four”—is distributing talent. Ronaldo’s camp reportedly feels that Al-Nassr has been neglected in this transfer window, while Al-Hilal continues to receive world-class reinforcements under Simone Inzaghi.
As reported by A Bola, Ronaldo’s absence from Al-Nassr’s match against Al-Riyadh was a calculated protest against the Saudi authorities. The “Bicho” remains unhappy that his club’s rivals are strengthening their squads while Al-Nassr’s requests for new signings have seemingly stalled.
The Benzema-Al-Hilal Domino Effect
Despite Ronaldo’s protests, Karim Benzema is expected to be announced by Al-Hilal in the coming hours. The French striker has reportedly agreed to an 18-month deal after falling out with Al-Ittihad over contract terms.
However, this move has created a massive bottleneck in the market:
- Marcos Leonardo: The Brazilian’s move from Al-Hilal to Atlético Madrid has hit a snag, as the Saudi club is reluctant to give the final green light amidst the current chaos.
- N’Golo Kanté: A potential move to Fenerbahçe is also on hold, as his departure depends on the resolution of the Benzema saga.
Will Ronaldo Leave?
While his current contract runs until 2027, this is the first time Ronaldo has shown such open defiance toward the league’s hierarchy. Al-Nassr officials are reportedly working “cautiously and wisely” to de-escalate the situation, but the shadow of the Al-Hilal “Dream Team” continues to haunt the title race.
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.
