Cristiano Ronaldo Goes On STRIKE At Al-Nassr, Set To Miss Next Match Because...

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to miss Al-Nassr’s next Saudi Pro League fixture against Al-Riyadh on Monday.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano reported on Sunday that the decision was not related to any physical issues or injuries. It led to widespread speculation on social media because some were initially wondering if he was being ‘rested’ ahead of the crucial match against Al Ittihad on Friday.

However, since then, Portuguese newspaper A Bola has claimed that his absence is ‘deliberate’ and stems from deeper dissatisfaction within the club.

According to the report, which cited information obtained from within Al-Nassr, the team captain is unhappy with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)’s handling of the club and transfers, particularly when compared

with the level of backing afforded to rival sides also under PIF control. Ronaldo is said to be frustrated by what he views as a lack of ambition in the transfer market, especially during the recent winter window.

Al-Nassr’s only addition was 21-year-old midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem, while requests for reinforcements from head coach Jorge Jesus went unmet. Compounding the issue, key decision-makers within the club’s hierarchy, including sporting director Simão Coutinho and chief executive José Semedo, have reportedly seen their authority curtailed following a board-level decision earlier this month.

The contrast with Al Hilal has further fuelled the discontent. The club has been highly active in the market, securing major signings and reportedly pursuing further high-profile reinforcements.

Developments elsewhere in the league, including speculation surrounding Karim Benzema’s future, have only intensified scrutiny of Al-Nassr’s strategy. Ronaldo’s stance follows earlier public comments from Jorge Jesus, who suggested the club wasn’t in the right ‘financial situation’.

“I spoke about the winter period,” Jesus said recently. “We don’t have any openings for foreign players, and the financial situation at Al-Nassr is not good and doesn’t allow it. I hope that one or two, maybe three players can join us.“