Cristiano Ronaldo Returns to Al-Nassr Training After Brief Dispute with PIF
Cristiano Ronaldo has resumed training with Al-Nassr following a short-lived dispute involving the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), clearing the path for the Portuguese superstar to potentially feature in this weekend’s Saudi Pro League fixture.
The 41-year-old forward missed Al-Nassr’s last two matches after expressing dissatisfaction with aspects of the club’s management under PIF oversight. His absence was reportedly linked to a protest in which he temporarily stopped training, prompting head coach Jorge Jesus to exclude him from the matchday squad.
However, discussions between Ronaldo’s representatives and club officials appear to have eased tensions. According to reports, assurances were given regarding internal matters and future sporting direction, paving the way for his return to full training.
Ronaldo is now expected to be available for Saturday’s league clash against Al-Fateh. Before that, Al-Nassr shift their focus to continental competition as they prepare to face Turkmenistan champions FK Arkadag in Wednesday’s AFC Champions League encounter — a competition viewed as a key objective for the Riyadh-based side this season.
Source of Frustration
Sources indicate that Ronaldo’s frustration stemmed from concerns over competitive balance within the Saudi Pro League. The Saudi Public Investment Fund controls four of the league’s top clubs — Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli — and there have been internal concerns about perceived prioritization in squad strengthening and recruitment strategies.
Ronaldo was reportedly disappointed with Al-Nassr’s relatively quiet January transfer window, particularly as domestic rivals reinforced their squads. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is understood to have pushed for more ambitious recruitment to boost the club’s chances in both domestic and continental competitions.
League Intervention
The Saudi Pro League is said to have warned Ronaldo that his protest risked harming the league’s global image and the credibility of PIF’s project, which has invested heavily in elevating Saudi football’s international profile since 2023.
Contract and Financial Context
Ronaldo remains the highest-paid footballer in the world, earning in excess of $4 million per week under a contract that runs until mid-2027. With approximately 18 months remaining on his deal, any potential suitor would reportedly need to meet a transfer valuation in the region of £43 million — though his commercial value and global brand influence remain significant strategic assets for Saudi football.
Since joining Al-Nassr in December 2022, Ronaldo has played a transformative role in the league’s global visibility, contributing both on the pitch and commercially. He continues to be one of the Pro League’s top scorers and remains central to Al-Nassr’s ambitions of securing major silverware.
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