Ronaldo’s Future at Al-Nassr in Question Amid Discontent

omidbasir- Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly facing dissatisfaction at Al-Nassr, leading to speculation about a possible departure during the summer transfer window. The 41-year-old superstar has no immediate plans to retire and is considering various options for his next club, including a potential move to the United States, where he could once again compete against his longtime rival, Lionel Messi, who plays for Inter Miami. A return to Europe has also been mentioned as a possibility, though specific destinations remain uncertain.

Ronaldo’s discontent appears to stem from the perceived treatment he has received from the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al-Nassr along with Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli. He reportedly believes that PIF is favoring Al-Hilal in their pursuit of the Saudi Pro League title, particularly following the transfer of his former teammate Karim Benzema from Ittihad to Hilal.

While Ronaldo has not yet secured a Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr, he feels he deserves more respect from PIF, especially given his efforts to elevate the league’s visibility. He is also serving as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup bid. His frustration has led him to decline participation in matches, including a recent victory over Al-Riyadh.

In an October 2025 statement, Ronaldo expressed his commitment to the league, stating, “For me, it is an honour that the league is growing and many star players are coming to make the league even better and more competitive. To be the first one – let’s say a star – to come here is an honour, but what I’m looking forward to is the next five to 10 years of the league still improving, not only the first teams but also the academies.”

He fondly recalled his favorite moment at the club, which was winning the 2023 King Salman Arab Clubs Cup, where he scored both goals in the final against Al-Hilal. “Winning titles brings ease, and to win my first trophy in my first year was amazing, but I want more. I will continue to push and help my team Al-Nassr to win titles. I believe that this year will be a good year for Al-Nassr,” he emphasized.

Ronaldo has a contract with Al-Nassr until 2027, but his release clause might attract interest from other clubs this summer. Former Al-Nassr coach Stefano Pioli praised Ronaldo’s work ethic, noting, “If I arrive half an hour early, he’s there 25 minutes early. He’s always the first to get on the bus. He’s a perfectionist who demands a lot from himself and from others.”

Al-Nassr is set to face Ittihad in a highly anticipated match, which could carry political undertones, especially if Ronaldo does not participate. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the potential for bids for Ronaldo’s services remains uncertain, with Al-Nassr chasing Al-Hilal closely in the league standings.