Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ongoing Boycott: A Call for Change at Al Nassr

Cristiano Ronaldo, the star player for Al Nassr, has reaffirmed his decision to boycott a second consecutive league match, citing the absence of definitive assurances from the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) regarding necessary changes in the club’s management, as reported by ESPN.

Sources indicate that if no guarantees for change are provided in the coming weeks, Ronaldo may request to depart from the club in June.

The Portuguese forward opted not to participate in Al Nassr’s recent 1-0 victory over Al Riyadh as a form of protest, voicing concerns that the PIF is not adequately investing in Al Nassr, thereby giving rival club Al Hilal an unfair advantage.

Further complicating matters, Ronaldo allegedly attempted to obstruct the transfer of French star Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, believing the move favored Al Hilal and signaled the PIF’s intent to assist them in securing the league title.

Despite training with his teammates this week, Ronaldo’s return to match action hinges on the prompt reinstatement of Al Nassr’s management powers. He seeks assurance that the interference experienced during the recent transfer window will not recur.

Al Nassr is scheduled to face Al Ittihad on Friday. Recently, the PIF suspended Al Nassr’s sporting director Simão Coutinho and CEO José Semedo, both of whom are Portuguese. This move frustrated Ronaldo and impeded the arrival of key reinforcements for the team, coached by compatriot Jorge Jesus. Additionally, the club has faced significant budget cuts.

In contrast, Al Hilal has benefited from a substantial financial boost from Saudi prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Alsaud, a billionaire benefactor, which has allowed them to enhance their squad. Reports suggest that all of Al Hilal’s signings during this transfer window, including Benzema, were financed by Prince Alwaleed, who owns 25% of the club, with the remaining 75% held by PIF.

Ronaldo remains visibly frustrated, having failed to secure a major title since joining Al Nassr in 2022. Although he has received offers from Europe and the United States, he is hesitant to leave now, fearing it may disrupt his preparations for the World Cup.

Having signed a contract extension last summer with Al Nassr that runs until June 2027 and includes a release clause of €50 million ($59 million), Ronaldo’s status as the league’s premier ambassador is of great value.

Both Al Nassr and PIF have reportedly assured Ronaldo of significant investments planned for the summer, with his Portuguese teammate Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United considered a potential acquisition among other high-profile names.

In response to Ronaldo’s frustrations, Al Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada expressed confusion, stating, “You should ask them. We are focusing on ourselves. In the end, it’s not like they [Al Nassr] had a bad summer transfer window with João Félix and Kingsley Coman arriving.”

He further emphasized the fierce rivalry and passion within Saudi football, particularly following Benzema’s signing, which has generated considerable excitement. Benzema’s addition is seen as a pivotal advantage for Al Hilal, currently leading Al Nassr at the top of the Saudi Pro League.

“We were looking to sign a striker, and a unique opportunity came up,” Calzada remarked. “A Ballon d’Or winner, with spectacular talent—the statistics speak for themselves. He doesn’t need to adapt to our league. We’re thrilled and ready to compete for all titles this season.”

Calzada also noted that Benzema’s impact extends beyond the field, positively influencing Al Hilal’s commercial and media engagement efforts.