The stand-off between Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr shows no signs of resolution.
Following his absence from the recent derby against Al Riyadh, the Portuguese superstar is set to miss another crucial fixture.
Reports from Fabrizio Romano confirm that the 41-year-old forward will not be part of the squad to face Sergio Conceicao’s Al Ittihad in the 21st round of the Saudi Pro League.
Ronaldo’s decision to remain on strike is a direct protest against the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and their current management of the league’s top clubs.
The primary source of the captain’s frustration is reportedly the high-profile transfer of Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal—Al Nassr’s fiercest rivals and current league leaders.
Ronaldo views such moves as detrimental to the competitive balance of the title race.
Uncertainty surrounds Cristiano Ronaldo’s future in Saudi Arabia
The duration of this unprecedented strike remains unclear, leaving Al Nassr without their talismanic leader during a pivotal stretch of the season.
The ongoing friction has sparked intense speculation regarding Ronaldo’s long-term future in the Middle East.
With no immediate changes expected from the league’s governing bodies, rumors are circulating that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner could seek an exit as early as this summer.
As the standoff persists, the football world is left wondering whether this protest could potentially accelerate the legend’s retirement or lead to a sensational return to European or global football.
For now, Al Nassr must prepare for one of their biggest matches of the season without their most influential figure, as the tension between their star man and the league’s administration continues to escalate.
