Ronaldo’s Concerns Over Club Management Amid Transfer Speculations

Al-Nassr, currently in pursuit of a domestic title, is set to face their local rivals on Monday. The participation of Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo in this fixture remains uncertain.

Reports had suggested that Ronaldo would be sidelined for the match against Al-Riyadh, a team teetering above the relegation zone, as his workload is being meticulously managed. Although Ronaldo maintains peak physical fitness, he can no longer play every minute for both club and country.

However, A Bola has dismissed these claims, asserting that any potential absence of Ronaldo is “not related to any physical management of the Portuguese forward.” Al-Nassr is already turning its focus toward an upcoming clash with defending champions Al-Ittihad on Friday, a match in which they hope to see their iconic No. 7 take part.

According to A Bola, Ronaldo is reportedly dissatisfied with the management of the club, which he has represented for three years, specifically in relation to the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia’s treatment of Al-Nassr compared to other clubs under its umbrella. As the club captain, Ronaldo is frustrated by the limited investment in his team, notably with head coach Jorge Jesus not receiving adequate financial backing to strengthen the squad during the winter transfer window. So far, the only addition to the team has been 21-year-old midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem, acquired from Iraq.

Additionally, it has been reported that two of Ronaldo’s compatriots at Al-Nassr, sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo, have had their powers curtailed following a recent board decision.

Ronaldo believes that the current management practices are “detrimental” when compared to Al Hilal, who have been notably more active in the transfer market. There are ongoing rumors that Al Hilal could pursue Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad, as no contract extension has been finalized for the 38-year-old striker.

Turkish reports indicate that Ronaldo is against the potential transfer of Benzema, arguing that it could harm fair competition within the league. Despite his objections, discussions regarding transfers are reportedly continuing.

This is not the first instance where Ronaldo has voiced his concerns regarding the Saudi Pro League. Earlier in January, coach Jorge Jesus commented on Al-Nassr’s lack of political power compared to Al-Hilal, prompting Al-Hilal to request a suspension for him, with suggestions of a ban lasting six months to a year. Ronaldo supported his coach’s remarks.

Having moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023, Ronaldo holds significant influence in the region, having initiated a trend of high-profile transfers. Former Al-Nassr manager Stefano Pioli previously remarked on the exceptional treatment afforded to Ronaldo, noting his punctuality, commitment, and leadership qualities.

Ronaldo has signed an extension of his contract that runs until the summer of 2027, as the Saudi Pro League aims to keep him satisfied and engaged. The league is keen to avoid any actions from this iconic figure that might tarnish its reputation.