Cristiano Ronaldo Goes on Strike, Misses Al Nassr's Crucial Match Against Al Riyadh
In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo was conspicuously absent from Al Nassr's Saudi Pro League encounter with Al Riyadh on Monday. According to multiple reports from Portuguese media outlet A Bola and international sports broadcaster Sky Sports, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner appears to have staged a deliberate strike, expressing his profound dissatisfaction with the club's transfer inactivity.
Roots of Ronaldo's Discontent: Transfer Inactivity and Perceived Bias
The reports indicate that Ronaldo's frustration stems from Al Nassr's failure to strengthen its squad adequately during the transfer window, a move he believes is essential for mounting a serious challenge for the league title. Furthermore, Sky Sports suggests that the legendary forward feels Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns four clubs in the league including Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, is showing preferential treatment towards the other three clubs, leaving his team at a competitive disadvantage.
Al-Nassr CEO Jose Semedo has declined to comment on the situation, as reported by Saudi media, adding to the speculation surrounding Ronaldo's unexpected absence. The 40-year-old forward has been in stellar form this season, netting an impressive 17 goals, yet his personal success has not translated into league dominance for Al Nassr.
League Standings and Rival Club Activity
Currently, Al Nassr sits in second place on the Saudi Pro League table with 46 points from 19 games, trailing just behind arch-rivals Al Hilal, who lead with 47 points. Al Hilal has been particularly active in the transfer market, securing former Arsenal defender Pablo Mari and being strongly linked with a £26 million move for Rennes' Kader Meite. They are also rumored to be pursuing Karim Benzema, who currently plays for Al Ittihad.
Interestingly, Benzema, Ronaldo's former Real Madrid teammate, recently staged a similar strike at Al Ittihad after feeling insulted by a contract extension proposal. The French striker, who reportedly earns £1.6 million per week and is out of contract this summer, refused to play in Al Ittihad's match against Al Najma on Sunday. Al Ittihad currently occupies sixth place with 34 points from 19 games.
Contrasting Fortunes: Ivan Toney's Contentment at Al Ahli
In a contrasting narrative, former Brentford striker Ivan Toney has reportedly turned down opportunities to join Juventus and two Premier League clubs during this transfer window. Toney, who is happy and settled at Al Ahli, believes he is fitter and sharper than ever, having scored 56 goals in 72 games for the club. His impressive form earned him a call-up to Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the June international camp, and he aims to continue scoring to secure a spot in the World Cup squad. Al Ahli signed him from Brentford for £40 million 18 months ago.
Ronaldo's strike action highlights the growing tensions within the Saudi Pro League, where high-profile signings and ambitious club projects are creating a competitive yet volatile environment. As the league continues to attract global attention, the dynamics between star players, club management, and ownership structures will be closely watched by football enthusiasts worldwide.
