Legendary football player Cristiano Ronaldo has received a warning from the Saudi Pro League to exercise prudence in his actions regarding club choices, highlighting the fact that he has no say in the matter.
On Monday, February 2, 2026, Al Nassr defeated Al Riyadh 1-0, although the Portuguese forward was conspicuously absent. It has been reported that he went on strike in dissatisfaction with the transfer window’s events.
Karim Benzema’s planned transfer from Al-Ittihad to league champions Al-Hilal, which would have bolstered a direct title competitor just one point ahead of Al Nassr, was seen to be the main source of tension.
As rivals pushed to bolster, Ronaldo allegedly felt dissatisfied with what he perceived as a chaotic window and insufficient support. Talk of discontent in the camp was only heightened by his absence from matchday duty.
League authorities responded by clarifying that club executives, not players, make decisions on recruitment, transfers, and other issues depending on their financial status.
The Real Madrid legend’s dedication since coming to Saudi Arabia has been praised by the league, but they advised him to concentrate on his game instead of trying to sway club management choices.
The Saudi Pro League is set up on the straightforward tenet that each team functions autonomously while adhering to the same set of regulations. Clubs are run by their own football leadership, boards, and executives. These clubs make decisions about strategy, spending, and recruitment within a budgetary framework intended to maintain competitive balance and viability. All teams in the league are subject to the same framework. Since joining Al Nassr, Cristiano has been totally committed to the team and has contributed significantly to its expansion and aspirations, a Saudi Pro League representative told the BBC.
“But no individual, however important, determines decisions beyond their own club,” it was further noted. That independence is amply demonstrated by recent transfer activity. One club got stronger in a certain way. Another person took a different tack. These were club decisions that were made within authorised budgetary constraints.
But according to sources, the 41-year-old has started practising anew with the Al Nassr team in preparation for their matchup with Al-Ittihad on February 6, 2026.
Other stories
-
Antoine Semenyo: “We will exhibit our culture at the World Cup.”
-
Building Insurance in Ghana: Protect Your Property and Loved Ones
-
“Ghana’s progress has surprised IMF officials themselves.” President Mahama
-
Here are 5 advantages of getting a face massage and tips for doing it correctly.
-
UCL drama: PSG and Man City falter while Barcelona and Chelsea triumph