The Saudi Pro League is on fire, and not just from the blistering pace of its superstars – Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly ready to walk away from Al-Nassr, feeling 'betrayed' by a transfer market he believes has tipped the scales against his club!
Key Takeaways from the Ronaldo Saga:
- CR7's Frustration: Ronaldo feels Al-Nassr hasn't been adequately strengthened, especially compared to rivals Al-Hilal.
- Benzema's Catalyst: The transfer of Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal by the PIF ignited Ronaldo's protest.
- Exit Threat: The Portuguese icon has reportedly warned he's prepared to leave Al-Nassr and the country.
- Contractual Obligations: Despite his reported £500,000-a-day deal, his participation in upcoming games remains uncertain.
Ronaldo's Ultimatum: A Shockwave in Saudi Football
Cristiano Ronaldo has thrown a massive curveball into the Saudi Pro League, reportedly threatening to abandon his record-breaking Al-Nassr contract. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner is said to feel 'betrayed' by the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) recent transfer maneuvers, specifically the blockbuster move of Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad to fierce rivals Al-Hilal.
His protest saw him conspicuously absent from Al-Nassr's recent clash against Riyadh. While now back in training, his availability for the upcoming showdown with Al-Ittihad hangs in the balance, despite his colossal salary and contractual obligations.
The Benzema Factor: Fueling CR7's Fury
The root of Ronaldo's discontent appears to be the perceived imbalance in squad strengthening. While Al-Hilal secured a fellow Ballon d'Or winner in Benzema – who promptly bagged a hat-trick on debut – Al-Nassr's January transfer window was notably quiet, signing only an under-23 midfielder, Haydeer Abdulkareem.
Ronaldo, who famously hasn't lifted the Saudi Pro League title during his tenure, reportedly desires assurances about the club's future direction if he is to remain. Whispers suggest a €50 million (£43m) release clause could pave the way for a sensational return to boyhood club Sporting CP or a move to top Turkish sides.
Expert Opinion & Rival Responses
Former Premier League star Danny Murphy didn't mince words, labeling Ronaldo's behavior as
