A text message from former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema contributed to Cristiano Ronaldo’s recent refusal to play for Al-Nassr, according to reports. The incident highlights growing tensions between the Portuguese star and his club following a contentious transfer window in the Saudi Pro League.
Benzema, who left Al-Ittihad in January after a disagreement with Al-Hilal, completed a move to Al-Hilal on deadline day. Prior to the finalisation of that transfer, he sent a message to Ronaldo updating him on the move. A source told The Telegraph that Benzema remarked he would secure a salary increase and compete for the league title with Al-Hilal.
Although the message was intended as a friendly update, Ronaldo was reportedly displeased by the prospect of Benzema joining a direct rival. He attempted to intervene to block the transfer. When that effort failed, Ronaldo began a protest, missing Al-Nassr’s last two matches.
The strike action appears rooted in Ronaldo’s frustration with Al-Nassr’s recruitment compared to Al-Hilal’s activity. While Al-Hilal added Benzema, French forward Mohamed Kader Meite, and defender Pablo Mari, Al-Nassr’s only signings were midfielder Hayder AbdulKareem and forward Abdullah Al-Hamdan—moves Ronaldo views as insufficient for competing for the title. He is said to perceive the situation as unfair, particularly regarding the influence of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns a majority stake in several clubs including Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr.
Ronaldo, who is under contract until 2025, has submitted a list of demands to club management in an effort to resolve the standoff. He has indicated he is prepared to seek a mid-contract departure if his requirements are not met.
The dispute underscores the high-stakes dynamics of Saudi football, where marquee acquisitions funded by PIF have intensified competition and raised expectations among star players. Ronaldo’s actions place further scrutiny on Al-Nassr’s strategy and its ability to meet the ambitions of its most high-profile asset as the season progresses.
