Cristiano Ronaldo was notably absent from Al Nassr's squad during their narrow 1-0 victory over Al Riyadh on Monday, sparking widespread speculation about a potential fallout between the football superstar and the club's management.
Transfer Window Discontent Fuels Rumours
The Portuguese forward's unexpected omission from the matchday roster follows emerging reports that Ronaldo has grown increasingly dissatisfied with the club's operations under Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). This discontent appears to have been exacerbated by what many observers have described as a relatively quiet transfer window for Al Nassr compared to their domestic rivals.
Consistent Performer's Sudden Absence
Ronaldo's absence marks a significant departure from his usual participation record. The 40-year-old had featured in every single league match for Al Nassr throughout the current season until this unexpected omission. Just days earlier, he had played a pivotal role in Friday night's victory over Al Kholood, scoring the opening goal of that encounter.
The timing of his absence has raised particular eyebrows given the context of Al Nassr's ongoing title challenge. The club currently trails league leaders Al Hilal by just a single point in what has become a fiercely competitive Saudi Pro League season.
Ownership Structure and Transfer Activity
Al Nassr forms part of a quartet of Saudi clubs - alongside Al Hilal, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad - that are all owned by the Public Investment Fund. However, transfer activity among these sister clubs appears to have been uneven, with Al Nassr making just one signing during the current campaign: 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Ronaldo believes other PIF-owned clubs have received preferential treatment regarding player acquisitions. Al Hilal, for instance, secured the signature of experienced striker Karim Benzema earlier in the transfer window, along with defender Pablo Mari, and continue to be linked with further reinforcements including Rennes' Mohamed Kader Meite.
Ronaldo's Saudi Journey
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner arrived in Saudi Arabia in 2022 following his departure from Manchester United midway through that season. Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has secured the Arab Club Champions Cup but has yet to claim a domestic league title with his current club.
Despite this, the Portuguese international remains a prolific contributor on the pitch. After signing a new two-year contract extension in summer 2025, Ronaldo has maintained impressive form, scoring 18 goals so far this season as Al Nassr continues to challenge for top honours.
The situation remains developing, with no official statement yet released by either Ronaldo or Al Nassr regarding the specific reasons behind his absence from Monday's crucial league encounter.
