Cristiano Ronaldo was a notable absentee as Al-Nassr took on Al Riyadh in the Saudi Pro League, with reports suggesting the Portuguese superstar stayed out as a form of protest over the club’s lack of transfer
activity.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Ronaldo is frustrated with Al-Nassr’s failure to strengthen their squad: a concern he reportedly believes is undermining the club’s title ambitions.
The dissatisfaction is said to be heightened by the contrast with rivals Al Hilal, who have been heavily linked with Karim Benzema following stalled renewal talks at Al Ittihad.
Both Al-Nassr and Al Hilal are backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), and A Bola claims Ronaldo is unhappy with how the fund manages the clubs differently.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is unhappy with the way the PIF is managing the club he has represented for three years, especially compared to the treatment given to rival clubs,” the report said.
Ronaldo was named in Al-Nassr’s matchday squad when line-ups were announced, adding to the confusion surrounding his absence. Reports insist the decision was not linked to fitness, injury or workload management.
Despite turning 40 earlier this year, Ronaldo has been in prolific form, scoring 17 goals this season. His omission has therefore intensified speculation about tensions behind the scenes and raised questions over his long-term future at the club.
Al-Nassr’s activity in the winter transfer window has been minimal, with 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem the only signing.
The club’s internal structure has also been under strain. Sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo reportedly had their decision-making powers frozen by the board earlier this month.
When asked directly about Ronaldo’s absence before the match, Semedo offered no clarity. “I can’t speak, and I don’t have an answer on this matter,” he told Thmanyah Sports.
While no official confirmation has been provided, many fans believe Ronaldo’s absence was a calculated statement aimed at the PIF.
Al-Nassr currently sit second in the league on 43 points, three behind leaders Al Hilal.
