Cristiano Ronaldo Goes On Strike, Refuses To Play For Al-Nassr
Akin Ayomide
Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly gone on strike ahead of Al-Nassr’s upcoming Saudi Pro League clash with local rivals Al-Riyadh on Monday.
The 40-year-old superstar, earning £488,000 per day, is said to be unhappy with how Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) manages Al-Nassr’s finances.
According to a source, Ronaldo is frustrated by the PIF’s treatment of Al-Nassr compared to other clubs. The PIF controls 75% of four Saudi Pro League teams—Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli—and has been key in attracting top global talent.
Since Ronaldo’s 2023 move to Riyadh, stars like Karim Benzema, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Riyad Mahrez joined other Saudi clubs on lucrative deals. Ronaldo believes Al-Nassr has not received the same support in the transfer market.
During the January window, Al-Nassr signed only 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem, while Al-Hilal added Spanish centre-back Pablo Mari for £1.7m, Rennes forward Kader Meite for £26m, and are finalizing another £26m deal for Neom star Saimon Bouabre.
Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has criticized the financial disparity, saying the club “does not have the political power of Al-Hilal.” His comments led Al-Hilal to seek a suspension of six months to a year for Jesus.
In December, Ronaldo hinted at a return to Europe, reiterating his goal of reaching 1,000 career goals.
Speaking in Dubai, he said, “My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe.”
“I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going. I will reach the number (1000 goals) for sure, if no injuries.”