Manchester United remains a focal point in global football even after its legends retire. The latest controversy involves one of the club’s all-time greats and has gained attention beyond England.
This season, the Saudi Pro League is facing scrutiny regarding its fairness and management, particularly with clubs backed by the same financial powers.
While attracting elite players and investment, there are doubts among some stars about the league’s management.
Behind-the-scenes tensions are now emerging publicly, creating uncertainty at a crucial moment in the season. From Manchester to the Middle East, developments are being closely monitored, especially concerning a global icon closely tied to United.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the highest-paid athlete of 2025, plans to miss Al Nassr’s match against Al-Riyadh on Monday. This decision stems from frustration with the club’s direction, rather than due to injury or rotation, as reported by A Bola.
Reports suggest that Ronaldo’s absence is not about managing his fitness for an upcoming match against reigning champions Al Ittihad, but rather his dissatisfaction with how the Public Investment Fund is managing Al Nassr compared to other clubs.
Ronaldo feels that Al Nassr is lagging behind, especially compared to Al Hilal, who are active in the transfer market.
As captain for three years, Ronaldo is particularly disappointed with the lack of squad investment, believing the club’s ambitions have fallen short of his own.
This frustration is heightened by a quiet winter transfer window, with only one signing, 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem, failing to convince Ronaldo that Al Nassr is serious about competing for titles.
Instability behind the scenes has added to his concerns, as the powers of sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo were reportedly frozen earlier this month following a board decision.
Ronaldo sees this internal turmoil as detrimental, especially as rival clubs seamlessly strengthen their squads.
Al Hilal’s recent signings highlight this issue, including a €2 million deal for Fiorentina’s Pablo Mari and plans to spend €30 million on Rennes forward Kader Meite.
The disparity is even more pronounced with rumors of Karim Benzema potentially joining Al Hilal, amid stalled contract talks at Al Ittihad, along with Simone Inzaghi’s side nearing a €30 million deal for young French international Saimon Bouabre.
This isn’t the first indication of trouble at Al Nassr; comments earlier this year suggested the club lacks the political clout enjoyed by Al Hilal, stirring major reactions in Saudi football.