Ronaldo’s Future in Question Amid Strike Rumors and Uncertainty

Cristiano Ronaldo is nearing his 41st birthday, set to celebrate the milestone on February 5. As of now, he shows no signs of impending retirement and has committed to a contract with Al-Nassr that extends through the summer of 2027.

However, doubts have arisen about the fulfillment of this agreement, particularly following Ronaldo’s absence from Al-Nassr’s latest match. Notably, he is neither injured nor has he been rested by coach Jorge Jesus, leading to speculation about his current status.

Reports from Portugal suggest that Ronaldo is on strike, expressing his discontent regarding what he perceives as a lack of support for Al-Nassr from the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which also oversees rival clubs Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli. This situation has been exacerbated by the transfer of his former Real Madrid teammate, Karim Benzema, from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal, a move Ronaldo reportedly opposes, citing concerns about fair competition.

Former Premier League player Stefan Schwarz has voiced his surprise at Ronaldo’s self-exclusion from competing, as it could be easier for him to reach the milestone of 1,000 career goals in the Saudi Pro League than in Europe. In an interview with BOYLE Sports, Schwarz stated, “Cristiano Ronaldo’s strike at Al-Nassr is strange to me; it would be easier for him to get to 1,000 career goals in the Saudi Pro League than the Premier League.”

He further noted, “While Ronaldo continues to score, competing in the Premier League or other top leagues presents more challenges. His drive to break the 1,000-goal record will be tough regardless of the league. He has shown remarkable professionalism throughout his career, setting an example in training, recovery, nutrition, and focus. Yet, like any player, he must perform to maintain his standing.”

Despite the ongoing situation, there has been no official comment from Al-Nassr regarding Ronaldo’s absence from their match against Al-Riyadh, which ended in a narrow 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane. Coach Jorge Jesus refrained from speaking to the press afterward, and media engagement was reportedly halted, a move considered unusual in a league striving to enhance its international presence.

Al-Nassr management instructed players and staff not to engage with media outlets, leaving uncertainty about Ronaldo’s participation in an upcoming top-of-the-table clash with Al-Hilal.

Speculation about Ronaldo’s future continues to escalate, as Portuguese news outlet Record reports that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is increasingly “unhappy” and may seek a new challenge following his role as captain for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup. A potential return to Europe, possibly to his boyhood club Sporting, or a move to join rival Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer (MLS) has ignited considerable discussion.