Al Nassr Supporters Erupt Over Cristiano Ronaldo's Goal Drought Crisis
Al Nassr supporters demonstrated their loyalty to star striker Cristiano Ronaldo as his boycott of the team entered its second match.
Following a firm caution from a Saudi Pro League representative, Ronaldo chose not to conclude his boycott in time for Friday's crucial clash with Al Ittihad, continuing his refusal to participate due to broader dissatisfaction with the insufficient financial backing provided to his team compared to league-topping Al Hilal.
Supporters in the stadium during the Al Ittihad match expressed their solidarity in the seventh minute, displaying placards bearing Ronaldo's name and jersey number while chanting for the Portuguese star.
Al Nassr hoped Ronaldo would conclude his boycott and return for what represented a pivotal fixture in the SPL championship battle. Even without their marquee striker, Al Nassr managed to claim a 2–0 victory through late strikes from Sadio Mané and Angelo Gabriel.
Will Ronaldo Play for Al Nassr Again?
Will Ronaldo Play for Al Nassr Again?
By missing the Al Ittihad encounter, Ronaldo demonstrated that he wouldn't terminate his boycott merely to assist the squad. He refused to return against the reigning champions while Al Nassr trails title contenders Al Hilal by just one point, causing significant irritation among club leadership.
Ronaldo is reportedly incensed by Al Nassr's minimal January expenditure, criticizing the Public Investment Fund, which maintains controlling stakes in Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad and third-positioned Al Ahli, for providing greater financial backing to rival teams.
With the transfer period now concluded, Al Nassr cannot compensate Ronaldo through new signings. The opportunity to acquire fresh talent has passed and the club must now challenge Al Hilal with their existing squad.
One party must yield if there's to be a constructive outcome. Saudi authorities made clear they wouldn't be the ones to compromise, stating to Ronaldo: "No individual—regardless of their importance—dictates decisions beyond their own organization."
Might Ronaldo offer an apology? His contractual duties to the club may compel him to if he wishes to continue receiving a salary reportedly worth £500,000 ($680,000) daily. Without the prospect of legal consequences or alternative motivation, it's difficult to envision Ronaldo conceding defeat in this situation.
This all suggests focus will shift to the summer transfer period, when a release clause of £50 million becomes available in Ronaldo's agreement. Teams don't need to activate that amount if they prefer to negotiate a reduced fee with Al Nassr, but it serves as a way to circumvent discussions with the Saudi club.
Should the two sides fail to reconcile before summer, a departure from Saudi Arabia would seem extremely probable. A European comeback has been suggested, while Major League Soccer clubs are recognized admirers, though a move to America presents significant challenges.