Cristiano Ronaldo Exit Rumours Grow as Al-Nassr Tensions Surface in Saudi Pro League
Cristiano Ronaldo’s stint with Al-Nassr could be nearing an unexpected turning point, with fresh reports suggesting the Portuguese superstar may be preparing to leave the Saudi Pro League amid growing dissatisfaction over how his club is being managed compared to domestic rivals.
According to Sportskeeda, Ronaldo is reportedly frustrated with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) - the sovereign wealth fund that controls Al-Nassr along with three other Saudi clubs - over what he perceives as preferential treatment for rivals such as Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, particularly in transfer dealings.
The 40-year-old forward was notably absent from Al-Nassr’s recent match against Al-Riyadh, officially due to rest. However, multiple reports now suggest the absence may have been part of a broader protest linked to internal club operations and transfer-related disappointments. Sources close to the situation claim Ronaldo believes the PIF failed to adequately back Al-Nassr during the January transfer window, while competitors like Al-Hilal completed high-profile signings, including Karim Benzema.
Ronaldo’s frustration reportedly stems from feeling undervalued despite his global stature and his significant role in boosting the Saudi Pro League’s international visibility since joining Al-Nassr in late 2022. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored 91 goals in 95 Saudi Pro League appearances, winning the Golden Boot, yet major domestic silverware has remained out of reach.
Although Ronaldo signed a lucrative contract extension that technically ties him to Al-Nassr until 2027, reports suggest his willingness to activate a potential exit clause this summer is gaining momentum. With around 18 months remaining on his current deal, clubs in Major League Soccer (MLS), other Asian leagues, and even parts of Europe are believed to be closely monitoring his situation.
Saudi Pro League insiders and transfer analysts have hinted that Al-Hilal remains a natural destination if Ronaldo stays in Saudi Arabia, especially with the opportunity to feature in expanded global competitions like the FIFA Club World Cup. Other destinations mentioned in speculation include Al Ahli and even leagues outside the Middle East.
Ronaldo’s journey in Saudi Arabia has been marked by commercial success but also competitive frustration. While he has undeniably elevated the league’s global profile, the absence of consistent title success and reported internal politics appear to have taken a toll. As the Saudi Pro League continues to attract elite talent, Cristiano Ronaldo’s future may ultimately depend on where sporting ambition, respect and personal goals align - particularly as he looks to cement his legacy in the final years of his illustrious career.
According to Sportskeeda, Ronaldo is reportedly frustrated with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) - the sovereign wealth fund that controls Al-Nassr along with three other Saudi clubs - over what he perceives as preferential treatment for rivals such as Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, particularly in transfer dealings.
The 40-year-old forward was notably absent from Al-Nassr’s recent match against Al-Riyadh, officially due to rest. However, multiple reports now suggest the absence may have been part of a broader protest linked to internal club operations and transfer-related disappointments. Sources close to the situation claim Ronaldo believes the PIF failed to adequately back Al-Nassr during the January transfer window, while competitors like Al-Hilal completed high-profile signings, including Karim Benzema.
Ronaldo’s frustration reportedly stems from feeling undervalued despite his global stature and his significant role in boosting the Saudi Pro League’s international visibility since joining Al-Nassr in late 2022. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored 91 goals in 95 Saudi Pro League appearances, winning the Golden Boot, yet major domestic silverware has remained out of reach.
Although Ronaldo signed a lucrative contract extension that technically ties him to Al-Nassr until 2027, reports suggest his willingness to activate a potential exit clause this summer is gaining momentum. With around 18 months remaining on his current deal, clubs in Major League Soccer (MLS), other Asian leagues, and even parts of Europe are believed to be closely monitoring his situation.
Saudi Pro League insiders and transfer analysts have hinted that Al-Hilal remains a natural destination if Ronaldo stays in Saudi Arabia, especially with the opportunity to feature in expanded global competitions like the FIFA Club World Cup. Other destinations mentioned in speculation include Al Ahli and even leagues outside the Middle East.
Ronaldo’s journey in Saudi Arabia has been marked by commercial success but also competitive frustration. While he has undeniably elevated the league’s global profile, the absence of consistent title success and reported internal politics appear to have taken a toll. As the Saudi Pro League continues to attract elite talent, Cristiano Ronaldo’s future may ultimately depend on where sporting ambition, respect and personal goals align - particularly as he looks to cement his legacy in the final years of his illustrious career.
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