Cristiano Ronaldo plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Pro League has cautioned legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo to be wary of his actions concerning club decisions, emphasising that he has no influence in such matters.
The Portuguese forward was notably left out of Al Nassr’s 1-0 victory over Al Riyadh on Monday, February 2, 2026, with reports suggesting he had gone on strike amid frustration over developments in the transfer window.
Tensions were believed to centre on Karim Benzema’s proposed move from Al-Ittihad to league leaders Al-Hilal, which would have strengthened a direct title rival just one point ahead of Al Nassr.
Ronaldo returns to Al Nassr training after reported boycott
Ronaldo was reportedly unhappy with what he viewed as a chaotic window and a lack of sufficient backing, as competitors moved to reinforce. His absence from matchday duty only fueled talk of unrest within the camp.
In response, league officials explained that decisions concerning transfers, recruitment, and other matters are handled by club executives based on their financial situation, not by players.
The league commended the Real Madrid legend’s commitment since his arrival in Saudi Arabia but urged him to focus on his football rather than seeking influence over club management decisions.
“The Saudi Pro League is structured around a simple principle: every club operates independently under the same rules. Clubs have their own boards, their own executives, and their own football leadership. Decisions on recruitment, spending, and strategy sit with those clubs, within a financial framework designed to ensure sustainability and competitive balance. That framework applies equally across the league. Cristiano has been fully engaged with Al Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club’s growth and ambition,” a Saudi Pro League spokesperson told BBC.
It was further explained, “But no individual, however significant, determines decisions beyond their own club. Recent transfer activity demonstrates that independence clearly. One club strengthened in a particular way. Another chose a different approach. Those were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters.”
However, reports indicate that the 41-year-old has resumed training with the Al Nassr squad ahead of their clash against Al-Ittihad on February 6, 2026.
SB/JE
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