Anthony Nlebem
Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly gone on strike ahead of Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League clash with local rivals Al-Riyadh on Monday, amid growing frustration over the club’s transfer policy.
The 40-year-old Portuguese superstar, who reportedly earns around £488,000 per day, is said to be unhappy with how Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) manages Al-Nassr’s finances compared to other state-backed clubs in the league.
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Al-Nassr’s matchday appearance without Ronaldo sparked widespread speculation after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was omitted from the squad, his first absence from a league matchday since May 2025.
European reports now suggest his absence may be linked to an internal dispute rather than fitness concerns.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Ronaldo has effectively withdrawn his services in protest.
Since Ronaldo’s move to Riyadh in 2023, high-profile stars such as Benzema, Kalidou Koulibaly and Riyad Mahrez have joined rival Saudi clubs on lucrative deals. Ronaldo reportedly believes Al-Nassr has not received comparable backing from the PIF.
That perception was reinforced during the January transfer window, when Al-Nassr signed only 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem.
In contrast, rivals Al-Hilal strengthened significantly, adding Spanish centre-back Pablo Marí for £1.7 million, Rennes forward Kader Meïté for £26 million, and reportedly closing in on another £26 million deal for Neom star Saimon Bouabré.
Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has previously criticised the imbalance, claiming his club “does not have the political power of Al-Hilal.”
Anthony Nlebem
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
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