Ronaldo delays Saudi return as family stays in Madrid amid injury concerns

March 19, 2026 Aksel Kryhlmand

Cristiano Ronaldo’s situation off the field is becoming almost as closely watched as his performances on it. The Portuguese forward, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, is currently in Spain while questions grow about both his family’s safety and his physical condition.

Move to Madrid linked to safety and stability

According to the UK newspaper Mirror, which cited Spanish outlet Vanitatis, Ronaldo and his partner Georgina Rodriguez have decided to remain in Spain for now, without confirming when they will return to Saudi Arabia.

The reports state that the family left Saudi Arabia earlier this month on a private jet following escalating tensions linked to a conflict involving the United States and Iran. While the situation is not believed to pose a direct threat to them personally, the decision appears to reflect a desire for caution.

They are currently staying in La Finca, a high-security residential area in Madrid known for hosting elite athletes and public figures.

For readers less familiar with Ronaldo’s current career, the 41-year-old forward plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, part of a broader push by the country to attract global sports stars and raise the profile of its domestic league.

Family considerations shaping short-term plans

According to Vanitatis, the timing of the move also coincided with the children’s school break, making the transition easier for the family. However, their return remains open-ended, and school schedules in Saudi Arabia are reportedly not influencing the decision.

The reports suggest that Ronaldo, while not viewing the geopolitical situation as an immediate danger, opted to prioritise a more predictable environment for his children during a period of uncertainty.

Rodriguez’s ongoing attendance at Madrid Fashion Week has further indicated that the family is settling into a temporary routine in Spain rather than preparing for an immediate return.

Injury adds pressure at crucial career moment

Beyond off-field considerations, Ronaldo is also dealing with a hamstring injury sustained during a match against Al Fayha in late February.

Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus addressed the issue directly, saying, “Ronaldo's injury is more serious than expected,” and confirming, “He moved to Spain to receive professional rehabilitation with a personal therapist.”

This development is significant given Ronaldo’s age and the physical demands of elite football. Recovery timelines for such injuries can vary, particularly for players in the later stages of their careers.

Race against time before a likely final World Cup

The situation carries added weight because of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held across North America. The tournament is widely expected to be Ronaldo’s final appearance on football’s biggest stage.

Having already won multiple Ballon d’Or titles and broken numerous scoring records, Ronaldo remains a central figure for Portugal’s national team. However, maintaining fitness will be critical if he is to compete at the highest level once again.

Uncertainty grows around return to Saudi Arabia

According to Mirror and Vanitatis, Ronaldo is expected to return to Al Nassr after completing his rehabilitation. What remains unclear is whether his family will accompany him back to Saudi Arabia or continue to stay in Spain for a longer period.

The combination of geopolitical tension, family priorities, and injury recovery has created an unusual period of uncertainty for a player known throughout his career for strict discipline and long-term planning.

For now, both his club future and international ambitions appear to depend on how quickly he can regain full fitness, and how his family situation evolves in the coming weeks.

Sources: OSEN (Kang Pil-joo)