Cristiano Ronaldo could be absent from Al-Nassr’s next Saudi Pro League fixture as frustration continues to build around the club’s recent direction, according to reports emerging from Portugal.
The 40-year-old forward, who has been a central figure in Saudi football since his arrival in 2023, is said to be unhappy with how Al-Nassr is being managed, particularly in comparison to rival clubs backed by the same Public Investment Fund (PIF). His discontent comes ahead of a scheduled league clash against city rivals Al-Riyadh.
While initial speculation suggested Ronaldo might be rested to manage his workload, Portuguese outlet A Bola claims the situation goes beyond fitness concerns.
Instead, the report points to dissatisfaction with the club’s transfer activity and internal decision-making.
Al-Nassr remain in the domestic title race, but their activity in the winter transfer window has been limited.
The club has added only one new player, young Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem, leaving gaps in the squad that Ronaldo reportedly believes should have been addressed.
Head coach Jorge Jesus has also yet to receive significant backing to strengthen his team.
Concerns reportedly extend to internal leadership, with senior Portuguese officials at the club — including sporting director Simao Coutinho and CEO Jose Semedo — said to have seen their influence reduced following board decisions earlier this year.
Ronaldo’s frustration is further fueled by what he perceives as unequal treatment among Saudi clubs under PIF management.
Al-Hilal, the league leaders, have been more active in the transfer market, and reports suggest they are exploring a potential move for Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad.
Ronaldo is believed to oppose such a transfer, arguing it could undermine competitive balance within the league.
This is not the first time tensions have surfaced publicly. Earlier in January, Jorge Jesus openly suggested that Al-Nassr lacks the institutional influence enjoyed by some of its rivals — comments that sparked backlash and disciplinary calls from opposing clubs.
Ronaldo was understood to be supportive of his coach’s stance.
Despite the current unrest, Ronaldo remains under contract with Al-Nassr until 2027, and league officials are keen to avoid any situation that could see the global icon disengage or step away from matches.
His presence has played a major role in boosting the profile and commercial appeal of the Saudi Pro League worldwide.
Whether Ronaldo features in the upcoming derby remains uncertain, but his situation highlights growing pressure on Al-Nassr to match ambition with investment as expectations continue to rise.