Cristiano Ronaldo adamant to boycott his second consecutive Saudi Pro League match. The streak is coming after his reported frustrations with Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF). Sources told ESPN that Ronaldo is unhappy with the club’s management and level of investment.
Cristiano Ronaldo did not feature in Al Nassr’s 1–0 win over Al Riyadh on Monday. The absence was a protest against what he believes is inadequate investment in the club. He also feels the imbalance gives rivals Al Hilal a clear competitive advantage.
Sources told ESPN that Ronaldo’s future is now uncertain. If no changes are made in the coming weeks, he could leave the club as early as June. That would be well before the end of his contract, which currently runs until 2027.
Cristiano Ronaldo trained with Al Nassr earlier this week. He shared photos on social media wearing the club’s colours on Wednesday. However, Al Nassr’s official X account only posted images of head coach Jorge Jesus and other players. Ronaldo did not feature in those posts.
The veteran forward has made his position clear. His return to competitive action depends on the restoration of full decision-making powers to the club’s management. He also wants assurances that the interference seen in the recent transfer window will not be repeated later this year.
Al Nassr currently sit second in the Saudi Pro League. They trail leaders Al Hilal by one point and have 46 points. The club is set to face sixth-placed Al Ittihad on Friday.
Ronaldo’s frustration grew after key changes behind the scenes. Sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo were suspended by PIF in recent months. The decision disrupted transfer plans, blocked the arrival of top players, and led to a reduction in club spending.
Sources told ESPN that Al Hilal, meanwhile, received a major financial boost from Saudi prince Alwaleed bin Talal Alsaud. The billionaire businessman is one of the club’s key backers. His funding was used to strengthen Al Hilal’s squad.
All of Al Hilal’s signings in the recent transfer window were financed by Alwaleed, including the deal for Karim Benzema. He holds a 25 percent stake in the club. The remaining ownership lies with the Public Investment Fund.
The situation has added to Cristiano Ronaldo’s frustration. He is yet to win a major title with Al Nassr. Sources say he has received interest from clubs in Europe and the United States. However, he is reluctant to move, fearing it could affect his preparation for the FIFA World Cup.
The Saudi Pro League is keen to retain one of its biggest stars. According to sources, Al Nassr and PIF have assured Ronaldo of significant investment in the summer transfer window. One of the names discussed is Portugal teammate and Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes.







