Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr Strike Potentially Over as Star Returns to Training
Cristiano Ronaldo's reported strike at Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr appears to be nearing its end, with the football icon returning to team training ahead of a crucial league clash against Al Ittihad. The 40-year-old forward, who will turn 41 on Thursday, skipped Al Nassr's last match but has now rejoined the squad, sparking speculation about his availability for Friday's high-stakes game.
Massive Implications for Saudi Pro League Standings
The upcoming match against Al Ittihad carries significant weight in the Saudi Pro League title race. Currently, Al Hilal maintain a slender one-point lead over Al Nassr at the summit of the league standings. A victory for Al Nassr in this encounter would propel them to the top of the table, intensifying the championship battle as the season progresses.
Neither Ronaldo nor Al Nassr have officially confirmed his return to competitive action, but his presence in training suggests the Portuguese superstar might be ready to lace up his boots once again. Ronaldo, who earns a reported £500,000 daily at Al Nassr according to Sky Sports, is contractually obligated to play unless injured, with 18 months remaining on his current deal that includes a £43 million summer release clause.
Behind the Scenes: What Sparked Ronaldo's Discontent
Ronaldo's apparent strike began after he missed Al Nassr's Saudi Pro League victory over Al Riyadh on Monday. Reports indicate the football legend was unhappy with the club's management and perceived financial disparities. Al Nassr, like Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, is owned by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund PIF, but Ronaldo reportedly believes his club isn't receiving equal financial support compared to their rivals.
The situation escalated when Al Hilal, Al Nassr's direct title competitors, signed former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad. This transfer reportedly frustrated Ronaldo, especially as Al Nassr's only January signing was young Iraqi midfielder Hayder Abdulkareem, limiting their ability to compete in the ongoing transfer window.
Financial Realities and Title Aspirations
Contrary to initial reports, Sky Sports clarified that Benzema's move to Al Hilal was financed by private billionaire Saudi investor Prince Alwaleed bin Talal rather than the league or PIF. Meanwhile, Al Nassr haven't faced PIF restrictions on signing players with private investor backing, similar to Al Hilal's approach with Benzema. The club has already invested £100 million this season, demonstrating substantial financial commitment.
Despite Ronaldo's presence, Al Nassr haven't secured the Saudi league title yet, with Al Hilal currently holding that narrow one-point advantage. As the season reaches its critical phase, Ronaldo's potential return could provide the boost Al Nassr needs to challenge for championship glory, making Friday's match against Al Ittihad a pivotal moment in their campaign.
