Cristiano Ronaldo followed through on his ‘threat’ and did not play for Al Nasr, adding his name to Karim Benzema’s reactionary stance at Al Ittihad.
The two former Real Madrid teammates, who for nine seasons formed the leading attacking duo in the club’s modern history, are now in the final stages of their careers. However, their recent moves have sent shockwaves through the Saudi Pro League in what initially appeared to be a calm transfer window.
Cristiano was left out of Al Nasr’s squad for the match against Al Riyadh, while Benzema continues to be absent from Al Ittihad’s playing duties following his displeasure with his renewal offer.
To put the context in perspective, the PIF (Public Investment Fund), as part of its strategy to develop and internationalize the league, has taken direct control of four clubs: Al Hilal, Al Nasr, Al Ittihad and Al Ahly. Other groups belong to large Saudi business groups.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in 2023 acted as a catalyst for massive investment, with the aftermath including the signing of Benzema and the expensive signing of Neymar from Al Hilal. However, the imbalance in investment appears to be the root cause of the Portuguese star’s discontent, which is expected to become greater after Benzema’s looming super deal with Al Hilal.
Huge difference between Al Hilal and Cristiano’s team
According to the available data, the financial support is not distributed equally among the clubs controlled by the PIF, which has caused serious concern in the Al Nasr camp.
The investments of each team (in euros)
Al Hilal 624 million
Al Nasr 409 million
Al Ahli 380 million
Al Ittihad 334 million
Al Qadisiyah 213 million
The €215m gap between Al Hilal and Al Nasr clearly illustrates the gulf, which became even more apparent in the winter transfer window. Al Nasr was limited to one addition of a young footballer, while the former proceeded with multiple transfers, investing over 40 million euros, while also approaching the impressive agreement with Benzema.
The whole scene has raised the level of tension, especially for Cristiano Ronaldo, who seems to think his team is not being treated equally. Although the “serial” does not seem to have an immediate solution, everything shows that the Portuguese star has more to lose if he prolongs the break, especially in his attempt to reach 1,000 career goals, unless he has found the next stage of his career and the team that will cover his… royal contract.
gazzetta.gr