Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al Nassr’s latest Saudi Pro League match, with reports indicating the decision was linked to frustration over the club’s lack of reinforcements during the January transfer window.
According to multiple reports, Ronaldo made himself unavailable as a sign of protest after rival club Al Hilal strengthened their squad, most notably with the surprise addition of Karim Benzema. Both Al Nassr and Al Hilal are backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Ronaldo is believed to be unhappy with what he sees as uneven support between the two clubs.
Al Nassr failed to sign any new players in January, despite pushing for reinforcements. Reports suggest the club’s financial flexibility is limited, with Ronaldo’s salary accounting for a significant portion of the wage budget.
Saudi officials have reportedly encouraged Ronaldo to return for Al Nassr’s upcoming fixture against Al Ittihad.
As things stand, Ronaldo remains an Al Nassr player, but the situation has added to growing discussion about how centrally funded ownership impacts competition within the Saudi Pro League.
