Cristiano Ronaldo Makes Major Decision: Necessary Progress Must Be Made

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again set the agenda in Saudi Arabia.

After a period of internal unrest and two missed league matches, the Portuguese superstar is now expected to return for Al-Nassr in this weekend’s clash against Al-Fateh.

However, the decision could have consequences far beyond three points in the table.

Dissatisfaction with Financial Framework

Behind his absence lies a funding dispute that has created tensions between Al-Nassr and key figures within the Saudi Pro League.

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Ronaldo has reportedly been dissatisfied with the club’s financial flexibility compared to other PIF-controlled clubs.

In particular, Al-Hilal’s ability to sign Karim Benzema has drawn attention.

According to sources, that deal was financed by board member Prince Alwaleed bin Talal rather than through central league funds.

Nevertheless, the situation has created a perception of imbalance that does not align with Al-Nassr’s ambitions.

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During this period, Ronaldo has continued to train professionally and remained in close dialogue with the club.

Internally, the board has supported his stance, underlining that this is not merely personal frustration, but a matter of strategic positioning.

Strategic Pressure Ahead of the Summer Transfer Window

Al-Nassr invested more than £100 million last summer in high-profile players such as Mohamed Simakan, João Félix and Kingsley Coman.

However, league funds are distributed through the central Player Acquisition Centre of Excellence, where clubs can apply for additional allocations on a case-by-case basis.

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In several quarters, Ronaldo’s actions are being interpreted as an attempt to ensure that Al-Nassr is better positioned ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

Saudi clubs are once again expected to act aggressively in the market, and international star players are already being mentioned as potential targets.

The league’s official stance has been that no individual stands above the system.

Even so, there is genuine concern that a split with Ronaldo would weaken the league’s international profile.

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That is according to GiveMeSport.

The Future Could Take a New Direction

Ronaldo is under contract until the summer of 2027.

However, he has made it clear that he is willing to leave Saudi Arabia if he does not see the necessary progress and ambition.

At the same time, several senior sporting figures in the country hope that he will not only continue his playing career in the Kingdom, but eventually take on a role as an investor or owner at Al-Nassr.

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His return against Al-Fateh may therefore be seen as a temporary easing of tensions in a broader power struggle.

The long-term solution will depend on whether Al-Nassr can secure the financial muscle their biggest star expects.