Cristiano Ronaldo Faces Uncertain Future at Al Nassr Amid Trophy Drought and Frustration

Cristiano Ronaldo has been playing in the Saudi Pro League for nearly two years, yet he is still without a domestic title at Al Nassr — a rare blemish in a career defined by silverware. This absence of trophies is reportedly one of the key reasons why the Portuguese star wanted to extend his stay in Riyadh. At every club he has played for, Ronaldo has won either the league title, a domestic cup, or both. Only in Saudi Arabia has that success eluded him so far.

During the winter transfer window, Ronaldo was linked with several clubs, including a surprise short-term move to Manchester City to help Pep Guardiola navigate a rough patch. However, his agent made it clear: the forward’s priority was to stay at Al Nassr. Ronaldo reportedly did not want to leave the country without lifting a trophy.

Around the same time, reports emerged that Ronaldo had agreed to a two-year contract extension with Al Nassr. But now, that verbal agreement seems irrelevant. According to sources close to the club, the board is seriously considering letting the player go when his current contract expires — especially since no formal documents have been signed.

The turning point appears to have come after a series of disappointing performances and incidents. In the latest league match, Al Nassr suffered a defeat to Al Ittihad, after which Ronaldo stormed off the pitch and headed straight to the parking lot — still in full kit. Just a week earlier, he reacted angrily to the team’s elimination from the AFC Champions League at the hands of Kawasaki Frontale.

The issue, however, runs deeper. Club executives are reportedly frustrated not just with Ronaldo’s recent behavior, but also with the continued failure to win titles. The Portuguese icon was brought in to help deliver silverware — and that hasn’t happened. As a result, many within the club are now questioning whether keeping him makes sense. At the moment, the prevailing view appears to favor parting ways.

Meanwhile, these rumors have prompted an unexpected reaction from FIFA. The organization is reportedly exploring how to ensure Ronaldo’s participation in the upcoming Club World Cup — a tournament where he is one of the global faces. The catch? Al Nassr isn’t among the participating teams. Still, FIFA is believed to be working on a solution, potentially involving a short-term transfer to one of the qualified clubs. If not, we may witness an unprecedented scenario: a FIFA-orchestrated move to include one of football’s biggest stars in its marquee tournament.

Published by Patrick Jane
10.05.2025