Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly refused to play for Al-Nassr ahead of the club’s Saudi Pro League clash with local rivals Al-Riyadh, in what is being described as a protest over the club’s financial treatment.

According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, the 40-year-old forward is unhappy with how Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) manages Al-Nassr compared with other top clubs under its control. PIF owns 75 per cent stakes in four Saudi Pro League teams—Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli—and has played a central role in attracting elite players to the league.

Since Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in 2023, several high-profile stars, including Karim Benzema, Kalidou Koulibaly and Riyad Mahrez, have moved to rival clubs on lucrative deals. Ronaldo is said to believe Al-Nassr has not received comparable backing in the transfer market.

During the January transfer window, Al-Nassr signed only 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem. In contrast, Al-Hilal completed the signing of Spanish defender Pablo Marí for £1.7 million, brought in Rennes forward Kader Meïté for £26 million, and are reportedly close to another £26 million deal for Neom star Saimon Bouabré.

Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus has also publicly complained about the imbalance, claiming the club lacks the “political power” enjoyed by Al-Hilal. His remarks reportedly prompted Al-Hilal to seek disciplinary action against him.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo has continued to fuel speculation about his future. In December, he hinted at a possible return to Europe as he pursues his long-stated target of reaching 1,000 career goals.

Speaking in Dubai, he said: “My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe. I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going. I will reach the number for sure, if no injuries.”