Cristiano Ronaldo excluded from Al Nassr squad again
Cristiano Ronaldo has been left out of Al Nassr’s travelling party for a third successive fixture, reports BritPanorama.
The Portuguese star was absent from the squad facing Arkadag in the AFC Champions League Two last-16 first leg in Turkmenistan. Despite his ongoing exclusion from matchday duties, the veteran forward appeared in training footage shared by the Saudi club on Wednesday morning, working alongside teammates at their Riyadh base.
Ronaldo has sat out consecutive Saudi Pro League clashes, opting not to participate in matches against Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad. Speculation has arisen regarding tensions between the five-time Ballon d’Or winner and the club’s hierarchy.
The Portugal captain is reportedly dissatisfied with the Saudi Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) unwillingness to strengthen the squad during the winter transfer window. This frustration was compounded when PIF-backed rivals Al Hilal secured the signature of Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad, further highlighting the disparities between team investments.
The PIF holds a 75 per cent majority stake in Al Hilal, which has led to concerns about unequal treatment within its football portfolio. While Al Nassr’s sole January acquisition was a youth player named Haydeer Abdulkareem, Al Hilal engaged in substantial spending, bringing in significant names such as former Arsenal defender Pablo Mari from Fiorentina.
Supporters have demonstrated their support for the absent star during recent fixtures, holding aloft yellow placards featuring his name and number. In response to the unfolding situation, the Saudi Pro League issued a stern statement indicating that “no individual however significant determines decisions beyond their own club,” seemingly countering Ronaldo’s attempts to exert influence over club investments.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star was also reportedly incensed to discover delays in salary payments for club staff. Al Nassr will return to domestic action this weekend as they prepare to face Al Fateh on Saturday, though it remains uncertain whether their marquee signing will feature.
For Ronaldo, the situation encapsulates a deeper quandary in sport where status and influence can clash — a reminder that even legends must navigate the complexities of club dynamics while seeking both personal fulfilment and team success.
