Cristiano Ronaldo's Saudi Future in Jeopardy Following Karim Benzema's Switch to Rivals
The football world is abuzz with speculation as Cristiano Ronaldo's tenure in Saudi Arabia faces uncertainty after Karim Benzema's high-profile transfer to Al-Nassr's closest title rivals, Al-Hilal. This development has reportedly sparked a major row within the Saudi Pro League, casting doubt on the Portuguese superstar's long-term plans in the Middle East.
Ronaldo's Reported Refusal to Play Amid Growing Dispute
According to reports from The Daily Telegraph, Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr's recent 1–0 victory over Al-Riyadh last weekend, a crucial win that brought them within a point of league leaders Al-Hilal. The 40-year-old forward was not included in the squad, with sources indicating he refused to play due to an ongoing dispute linked to Benzema's transfer. Ronaldo is said to be furious over what he perceives as a lack of investment in Al-Nassr, especially as Al-Hilal has been allowed to strengthen their squad with Benzema's acquisition.
Benzema's Controversial Move to Al-Hilal
Karim Benzema's transfer from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal has now been approved following the termination of his contract, a move that has stirred significant controversy. The 36-year-old French striker had been under contract at Al-Ittihad until June but sought a move after expressing dissatisfaction with the extension offered, which he reportedly deemed disrespectful. Benzema has agreed to an 18-month contract with Al-Hilal, withdrawing from first-team activities and training alone ahead of the deadline-day switch.
Upheaval in the Saudi Pro League and PIF's Role
The situation has caused considerable upheaval within the Saudi Pro League, where Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ittihad are all controlled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which also owns Newcastle United. The PIF had originally sanctioned Benzema's move, raising questions about fairness and competitive balance. Al-Ittihad is now attempting to free up squad space and finances, potentially for a move for Mohamed Salah if he becomes available from Liverpool at the end of the season, with N'Golo Kanté also expected to leave for Turkish side Fenerbahce.
Ronaldo's Frustration and Al-Nassr's Stance
Ronaldo is particularly angered by Al-Hilal being permitted to bolster their squad while Al-Nassr has not received similar backing, despite the club having benefited from substantial investment, including Ronaldo's own lucrative deal worth approximately £177 million per year. Al-Nassr officials argue that due process was followed in the Benzema transfer, treating it as no different from any other deal, though it is highly unusual for a player to join an immediate title rival.
Cristiano Ronaldo, who turns 41 this Thursday, joined Al-Nassr from Manchester United in December 2022, and his future in Saudi Arabia now hangs in the balance as this dispute unfolds.
