Cristiano Ronaldo has dramatically returned to training with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, ending a brief but significant strike action that saw him miss a crucial league match. The Portuguese superstar, who reportedly earns approximately £500,000 per day, had taken a stand against what he perceived as preferential treatment by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) towards other clubs under its ownership.
Strike Action Over Transfer Disparity
Ronaldo's protest led to his notable absence from Al-Nassr's Saudi Pro League fixture against Al-Riyadh on Monday. The forward was neither injured nor suspended, choosing instead to abandon his teammates during a tense title race at the summit of the table. His decision stemmed from frustrations regarding the club's transfer activity during the winter window, particularly when compared to their PIF-owned rivals.
PIF's Portfolio and Perceived Imbalance
Al-Nassr is one of four Saudi Pro League clubs owned by the Saudi state through the PIF, alongside Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli, and Al-Ittihad. Currently, Al-Hilal leads the league by a single point, with Al-Nassr occupying second place. The perceived imbalance became starkly evident during the January transfer period.
Al-Hilal, the reigning champions from Ronaldo's first full season in Saudi Arabia, secured several high-profile signings. Their deadline-day coup was the blockbuster acquisition of Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad, adding to earlier recruits like former Arsenal defender Pablo Mari and Rennes' teenage sensation Mohamed Kader Meite, who commanded a £26 million fee.
In stark contrast, Al-Nassr's only signing was 21-year-old Iraqi centre-back Hayer Abdulkareem. This lack of ambitious investment, especially compared to their direct rivals, reportedly incensed the 40-year-old talisman, prompting his drastic strike action.
Resolution and Return
The dispute appears to have reached a resolution. Ronaldo signalled his return by posting a picture of himself back in training on social media, accompanied by two heart emojis in Al-Nassr's iconic yellow and blue colours. His immediate availability for the squad remains under scrutiny, with a pivotal Friday clash against Al-Ittihad looming. A victory in that match would propel Al-Nassr to the top of the league table.
Contract and Career Ambitions
Ronaldo signed a lucrative two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr last June, solidifying his status as the poster-boy of Saudi football's ambitious project. His drive remains undimmed as he pursues the monumental milestone of 1,000 career goals, sitting just 39 strikes away from that historic barrier.
However, the striker recently hinted that his future may not necessarily lie in Saudi Arabia. Speaking at an awards ceremony in Dubai last December, Ronaldo stated, "My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn't matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe. I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going. I will reach the number (1000 goals) for sure, if no injuries."
World Cup Reprieve and Current Form
On the international stage, Ronaldo is set to feature for Portugal at the upcoming World Cup after FIFA granted him a controversial reprieve. Following a red card for violent conduct against Ireland, which typically incurs a three-match ban, FIFA decided to suspend the final two matches of his suspension. This conditional reprieve is contingent on Ronaldo not committing "another infringement of a similar nature and gravity during the probation period."
For Al-Nassr, the immediate priority is reintegrating their star player. Ronaldo's form this season has been formidable, with 17 goals in just 18 league appearances, making his presence on the pitch invaluable for their championship aspirations.
