Cristiano Ronaldo’s struggles in Saudi Arabia as he turns 41
As Cristiano Ronaldo turns 41 today, the football legend’s time in sunny Saudi Arabia is starting to turn sour, reports BritPanorama.
Over three years after joining Al-Nassr, and with no trophies to show for his efforts, the Portugal international has begun to show signs of frustration. Despite his staggering salary of £500,000 a day, Ronaldo finds himself losing influence and reputation in a kingdom where these factors are paramount.
Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in January 2023 following a fallout with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, exiting Old Trafford under a cloud after an infamous interview with Piers Morgan. Although he has consistently scored, netting 117 goals in 133 appearances for Al-Nassr, the prospect of trophy success appears dim. As the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada approaches, he remains central to Portugal’s ambitions but is grappling with mounting pressures.
Unhappiness has taken root, particularly this week, when Karim Benzema, a former teammate, was allowed to join rival club Al-Hilal. Ronaldo, believing Al-Nassr lacks the financial backing given to its rivals—Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli, and Al-Ittihad—wonders whether his chances of securing silverware are diminishing. Their sole signing, an inexperienced young Iraqi midfielder, failed to meet his expectations for ambition in the transfer market.
Ronaldo’s discontent deepened as he recently went on strike, missing a match against Al-Riyadh, which Al-Nassr won 1-0. While he has returned to training, tensions remain high, evident from the club’s decision not to release images of him training. There are concerns regarding his participation in an upcoming clash against Al-Ittihad, which is expected to be a significant challenge.
With the World Cup looming, there’s a real possibility that Ronaldo’s illustrious career could conclude amid ongoing tensions. As the footballing world anticipates his retirement, his earlier celebrated tenure may now be overshadowed by disappointment and frustration, encapsulating a career that has had its share of highs and lows.
Ronaldo’s journey illustrates the fragile relationship between hope and reality in football, a reminder of how even the brightest stars can face turbulent times as their careers wind down.
