Cristiano Ronaldo has been informed by the Saudi Pro League that “no individual — no matter how prominent — influences decisions beyond their respective club,” amid tensions surrounding transfer expenditures.
The Portuguese icon, who celebrated his 41st birthday on Thursday, is dissatisfied with Al Nassr’s inactivity during the January transfer window.
According to sources, Ronaldo intends to boycott a second consecutive league match after not receiving assurance that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) will implement changes concerning the management of the Saudi Pro League club.
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but, sources indicated that Al Nassr is anticipating Ronaldo’s participation on Friday against Al Ittihad, following his absence from a match on Monday against Al Riyadh.
Ronaldo is frustrated with the PIF for not investing in the team during the winter window while rival team Al Hilal — also 75% majority owned by the PIF — secured his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad.
In response, the league released a statement Thursday evening emphasizing the autonomy of all clubs to manage their finances as they choose.
“The Saudi Pro League operates on a straightforward principle: Each club functions independently under the same regulations,” a league spokesperson remarked.
“Clubs have their own governance boards, executives, and football management. Decisions regarding recruitment, spending, and strategy are made by these clubs within a financial framework designed to promote sustainability and competitive balance. This framework is uniformly applicable throughout the league.
“Cristiano has been fully committed to Al Nassr since his arrival and has played a crucial role in the club’s development and aspirations. As any top competitor, he desires victory. but, no individual — however significant — influences decisions beyond their own club.
“Recent transfer activity clearly illustrates this independence. One club strengthened in a specific manner, while another opted for a different strategy. These were decisions made by the clubs within the approved financial guidelines.
“The competitiveness of the league is evident. With only a few points separating the top four teams, the title race remains very much alive, showcasing a balanced system that is functioning effectively.
“Our focus is on football — on the pitch, where it rightfully belongs — and on sustaining a credible, competitive environment for players and supporters.”
It is understood that transfer funds do not come from the PIF but rather from a player acquisition fund.
This fund is managed centrally by the Saudi Pro League and allocates funding to clubs annually based on their size, with the nation’s top four — Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli — believed to have received approximately the same amount before last summer’s transfer window opened.
Al Nassr made significant moves during that window, signing João Félix and Kingsley Coman while also re-signing Ronaldo on a new deal lasting until June 2027.
This activity is believed to have utilized a substantial portion of their player acquisition money until they receive the next payment before the summer window of 2026.
Al Hilal’s acquisition of Benzema was financed separately by a private investor, a route that Al Nassr could have also pursued but chose not to.
even with the uncertainty regarding his availability for Friday’s match, Al Nassr shared an enthusiastic birthday message for their star player on X on Thursday.
“The legend only grows. Your commitment, mentality, and leadership propel our dreams forward. Happy Birthday @Cristiano!” the Al Nassr post stated.
ESPN’s Bruno Andrade, Julien Laurens, and PA contributed to this report.
