RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Cristiano Ronaldo emphatically reaffirmed his commitment to Al-Nassr and the Saudi Pro League on Saturday, stating, “I belong to Saudi Arabia,” following a recent period of reported discontent. The 41-year-old’s declaration came after a dominant 4-0 victory over Al-Nazem, a result that propelled Al-Nassr to the top of the league standings.
The Portuguese superstar’s future at the club had been cast into doubt earlier this month after he missed matches against Al-Riyadh and Al-Ittihad. Reports indicated Ronaldo was frustrated by a perceived lack of investment in the Al-Nassr squad during the recent transfer window, particularly in comparison to rivals Al-Hilal, who secured the signing of his former Real Madrid teammate, Karim Benzema.
Ronaldo’s absence sparked speculation about a potential departure, but he returned to the pitch on , scoring against Al-Fateh. He followed that up with a brace against Al-Nazem, demonstrating his continued importance to the team. His goals on Saturday not only secured the win but also sent a clear message about his dedication to the club.
“I’m very happy,” Ronaldo told Saudi broadcaster Thmanyah. “It’s a country that welcomes very well to me, to my family and friends. I’m happy here, I want to continue here.”
The resolution to the dispute appears to center around concessions made by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal. According to sources, Ronaldo’s demands included the restoration of management authority to club executives Simão Coutinho and José Semedo, as well as the settlement of overdue player salaries. These demands were reportedly met, paving the way for Ronaldo’s return to the team and his public endorsement of the league.
The situation highlights the evolving dynamics within the Saudi Pro League, which has attracted a growing number of high-profile players in recent years. The league’s ambition to become a global force in football is evident in its investment in talent, but the disparity in financial backing between clubs – particularly those owned by the PIF – has become a point of contention.
Ronaldo’s initial frustration stemmed from the feeling that Al-Nassr was not receiving the same level of support as Al-Hilal, despite both being under the PIF umbrella. This imbalance raised questions about the league’s commitment to competitive equity and the potential for a two-tiered system where certain clubs are consistently favored.
Al-Nassr’s coach, Jorge Jesus, recently voiced similar concerns, lamenting the club’s lack of “economic power” in the transfer market. This underscores the challenges faced by clubs attempting to compete with the financial muscle of the PIF-backed teams.
Despite the off-field drama, Al-Nassr is currently enjoying success on the pitch. The victory over Al-Nazem moved them one point clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League, and they are also progressing well in the AFC Asian Cup, having reached the quarter-finals. Ronaldo’s continued presence and goal-scoring prowess are undoubtedly key factors in their success.
Ronaldo signed a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr last June, committing himself to the club until the summer of 2027. His current form suggests he remains a valuable asset, both on and off the field. His presence continues to elevate the profile of the Saudi Pro League and attract attention from fans around the world.
The league’s ambition is not solely focused on attracting established stars. The long-term goal is to develop local talent and create a sustainable football ecosystem. However, the immediate impact of players like Ronaldo and Benzema is undeniable, and their presence is helping to raise the overall standard of play.
Looking ahead, Al-Nassr will need to maintain its momentum and navigate a challenging schedule if it hopes to secure the league title. The competition is fierce, and Al-Hilal will undoubtedly be looking to reclaim the top spot. Ronaldo’s leadership and goal-scoring ability will be crucial as the season reaches its climax.
The resolution of Ronaldo’s dispute with the PIF represents a significant moment for the Saudi Pro League. It demonstrates the league’s willingness to address the concerns of its star players and ensure a competitive environment. However, the underlying issues of financial disparity and competitive equity remain, and will need to be addressed in the long term to ensure the league’s continued success.
