Cristiano Ronaldo has found himself at the centre of controversy after reportedly going on strike at Al-Nassr, missing two key Saudi Pro League matches. He has since drawn sharp criticism and has been told to remember his place.
Cristiano Ronaldo has landed himself in controversy once again after reportedly going on strike at Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr. The Portuguese superstar has missed the club’s last two matches, sparking widespread debate about his future.
Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr’s derby clash against Al-Riyadh after ruling himself out in protest over how funds are distributed among clubs in Saudi football. Although he later returned to training, he also did not feature in the top-of-the-table clash against Al-Ittihad, further fuelling speculation that all is not well.
With Ronaldo missing key games, questions are now being raised about whether his record-breaking contract could be terminated early. The deal, which runs until 2027, is believed to include a release clause that could be activated this summer. Reports have also linked him with a possible return to Europe or even a shock move to MLS side Inter Miami, where he could join long-time rival Lionel Messi.
Ronaldo faces criticism
Ronaldo’s actions have drawn strong criticism within Saudi Arabia. Walid Al-Faraj, one of the most respected voices in Saudi football, did not hold back while speaking to Portuguese outlet A Bola. He reminded Ronaldo that no individual player is bigger than the league.
“Cristiano Ronaldo needs to know his place. This country is called Saudi Arabia, not Ronaldo’s Arabia. He confuses being an ambassador with being a manager. He is an employee who earns a huge salary and must respect the league or leave,” Al-Faraj said.
Al-Faraj compared the situation to European football, saying such behaviour would never be accepted in leagues like the Premier League. “Imagine a Manchester City player refusing to play in protest against the club owner’s decisions. Or an Arsenal player refusing two games because he’s unhappy with the renewal offer. It’s impossible for a player to dare do that in the Premier League,” he said.
Ronaldo had recently travelled to the United States as part of a Saudi delegation, meeting former US President Donald Trump. “We could give him 500 years and Ronaldo would never enter the White House. If he hadn’t been part of the Saudi delegation, he wouldn’t even have gotten close to the door,” he said.
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