Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has excluded Cristiano Ronaldo from his squad for the Saudi Pro League fixture against Al-Ittihad on Friday, marking the second consecutive match the 41-year-old forward will miss. Ronaldo, who returned to training this week, is understood to be maintaining a personal protest regarding the financial backing of his club by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Ronaldo’s omission is directly linked to his belief that Al-Nassr does not receive comparable financial support from the PIF to that afforded to their primary title rivals, Al Hilal. The PIF, Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, holds controlling stakes in several top-tier Saudi clubs, including Al Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Nassr. Despite the shared ownership, significant disparities in spending power and squad investment between these clubs have been a recurring theme in the league.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s protest highlights the internal dynamics of a league propelled by massive sovereign investment. While Al Hilal has consistently acquired high-profile talent and strengthened its squad depth, Ronaldo’s frustration suggests a perceived inequity in resource allocation from the common owner. This tension underscores a broader narrative within the Saudi Pro League, where clubs backed by the PIF compete fiercely for domestic and Asian continental success.
Ronaldo’s absence is a considerable blow to Al-Nassr’s attacking options. Since joining the club in late 2022, he has been the focal point of their campaign. His continued absence from the sheet, despite being fit and training, points to a serious, personal stance rather than a physical injury issue. The situation places manager Jorge Jesus in a difficult position, balancing team selection with the sensitivities surrounding one of the world’s most prominent athletes.
The fixture against Al-Ittihad, another PIF-owned club, adds further complexity. Al-Nassr’s title ambitions are already under pressure from Al Hilal’s dominant form. Missing Ronaldo weakens their prospects in a critical match, intensifying scrutiny on the club’s strategy and its relationship with the PIF.
This development is significant for the Saudi Pro League’s global image. It publicly exposes governance and funding questions within a league that has attracted numerous international stars. The resolution of Ronaldo’s protest could influence his future at Al-Nassr and set a precedent regarding athlete influence in state-backed sporting projects. The league now turns to Friday’s match, with Al-Nassr’s approach and Ronaldo’s status remaining a central storyline. Subsequent squad announcements and any official statements from the club or player will determine the next phase of this situation.
