Ronaldo’s Future in Question Amid Frustrations in Saudi Arabia

omidbasir- Cristiano Ronaldo has recently expressed frustration concerning the distribution of funds among teams in the Middle East, leading him to rule himself out of a derby match against Al-Riyadh. Although he returned to training following that fixture, he was also absent from a crucial clash with Al-Ittihad.

As discussions about his future intensify, reports indicate that Ronaldo possesses a release clause in his contract that may be activated this summer. Speculations about a possible return to Europe, where he previously played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, are gaining traction. Some sources have even suggested the possibility of him reuniting with longstanding rival Lionel Messi at MLS Cup champions Inter Miami.

No definitive decision regarding his long-term plans has been made yet, as he is currently tied to a record-setting deal with Al-Nassr that extends until 2027. Nonetheless, the veteran 41-year-old has been urged to show greater respect for those who have contributed to his sustained relevance in the final chapters of his illustrious career.

Prominent television host Walid Al-Faraj, a respected figure in Saudi Arabian football, remarked on Ronaldo’s recent behavior: “Cristiano Ronaldo needs to understand his place. This country is called Saudi Arabia, not Ronaldo’s Arabia. He confuses being an ambassador with being a manager.”

Al-Faraj went on to express disappointment in Ronaldo’s actions and emphasized the need for him to respect the league, reflecting on the impossibility of a player in the Premier League taking similar stances against their club’s management.

Despite these challenges, Ronaldo has remained a significant public figure in the region, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s successful bid for the 2024 World Cup and even meeting with President Trump during a trip to the United States.

Al-Faraj noted that such opportunities might not have arisen without the support of those now compensating him, suggesting, “If he hadn’t been part of the Saudi delegation, he wouldn’t have even gotten close to the door of the White House.”

In an official statement, the Saudi Pro League stressed that no player, regardless of their past achievements, is greater than the game itself, asserting that clubs are independent entities responsible for their recruitment.

As the situation unfolds, it remains uncertain whether Ronaldo will continue with Al-Nassr or pursue a new challenge. There are indications that Al-Nassr is already considering potential replacements for their star player, with names like Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes emerging as ideal candidates, particularly to maintain fan engagement among Arab audiences.

With Al-Nassr recently achieving two consecutive victories without Ronaldo and currently sitting just one point behind table leaders Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, they are set to face Arkadag in the AFC Cup’s last 16 on Wednesday, with no update on Ronaldo’s participation in that match.