Ronaldo Shows Commitment to Al-Nassr Amid Rivalry with Al-Hilal

Cristiano Ronaldo has recently shared a training photo from Al-Nassr, accompanied by heart emojis in the club’s colors, signaling his commitment to the team. Currently, the squad is gearing up for an important match against Al-Ittihad this Friday in the Saudi Pro League.

Al-Ittihad has just bid farewell to star striker Karim Benzema, who has joined Al-Hilal, a move that reportedly has left Ronaldo feeling frustrated. Observers note that the transfer has strengthened one of Al-Nassr’s main title competitors while the team has had a relatively quiet January transfer window, having signed only under-23 midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem.

Ronaldo’s absence in Al-Nassr’s last match, coupled with Benzema’s transfer to Al-Hilal, has created significant turbulence in the Saudi Pro League at this mid-season juncture. Al-Hilal currently leads the league, sitting just one point ahead of Ronaldo’s side after 19 matches, and they are optimistic about finishing the season atop the standings. While Benzema previously won the Saudi Pro League in the 2024-25 season, Ronaldo is still seeking his first trophy since moving to the Middle East.

Benzema elaborated on his decision to join Al-Hilal during a media interaction, stating, “Clearly, you know my mentality; I have a lot of ambition. I will work; I will give everything on the pitch. I will help this team, and, Inshallah, bring trophies because for me, it’s more important to bring trophies. We have a good team and good fans, so together, Inshallah, we will do it. I feel good, and I’m happy to be here after my first training with the team and the coach. I’m glad to be part of this great team with a rich history; they have won many trophies. It’s like Real Madrid here in Asia, you know.”

Al-Hilal’s CEO, Esteve Calzado, commented on the ongoing situation regarding Ronaldo amidst rumors of a potential strike. He emphasized that such questions should be directed towards Ronaldo himself, stating, “You should ask him. We are focusing on ourselves. In the end, it’s not like Al-Nassr had a bad summer transfer window with Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman arriving. There’s a rivalry and a passion in this country that I never would have imagined; I thought I had seen it all. People have gone crazy with the Benzema signing. We were looking to sign a striker, and a unique opportunity arose. A Ballon d’Or winner with exceptional talent—the statistics speak for themselves. Plus, he doesn’t need to adapt to our league. Everything fell into place. We are absolutely thrilled. I’m not surprised Benzema chose us, as ultimately Al-Hilal is the most popular and powerful club not only in Saudi Arabia but also in Asia. We are ready to compete for all titles, and we are well-positioned to do so this season.”

It remains uncertain when Ronaldo will make his competitive return for Al-Nassr. Recent updates indicate he may be available for Friday’s match against Al-Ittihad, although speculation persists that he may once again be sidelined. All eyes will be on the Al-Nassr team sheet this Friday to determine if Ronaldo is ready to take the field and lead his team once again.