Ronaldo absent from Al Nassr squad, dissatisfaction issue with PIF transfer policy surfaces.

Cristiano Ronaldo is once again the center of attention in the Saudi Pro League. This time, not due to goals or new records, but because of behind-the-scenes tensions involving the Portuguese megastar and the management of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The Portuguese national team superstar was absent from Al Nassr's squad during their away match at Al Riyadh in the continuation of the Saudi Arabian League. Despite playing without Ronaldo, Al Nassr secured 3 points with a 1-0 victory at Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Stadium on Monday evening, January 2, 2026 Western Indonesian Time.

Portuguese media outlet A Bola reported that Ronaldo's absence stemmed from dissatisfaction with how PIF operates the club.

Ronaldo's absence is certainly unwelcome news for Al Nassr. The 40-year-old remains their primary goal-scoring machine, netting 18 goals in 22 matches across all competitions this season. 

According to the same report, Ronaldo believes PIF isn't treating Al Nassr fairly, particularly regarding financial support in the transfer market. 

PIF controls 75% ownership shares in four Saudi Pro League clubs: Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, and Ronaldo's club Al Nassr. However, Ronaldo perceives an imbalance in investment distribution among these clubs.

Ronaldo was the pivotal figure who opened the door for world-class stars to join Saudi Football. Since his spectacular 2023 transfer to Faris Najd, the Saudi Pro League has attracted numerous big names with lucrative contracts.

Karim Benzema joined Al Ittihad, while Kalidou Koulibaly and Riyad Mahrez signed with Al Hilal and Al Ahli respectively. 

Ronaldo feels Al Nassr is lagging in transfer support. His frustration peaked during the January 2026 transfer window. 

Al Nassr recruited only one player: 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem. This signing was viewed as inadequate for Al Nassr's championship ambitions.

In contrast, Al Hilal was more aggressive. Coach Simone Inzaghi's club signed Spanish center-back Pablo Mari for £1.7 million (approximately IDR 34 billion).

Beyond that, Al Hilal spent £26 million (IDR 518 billion) to acquire Stade Rennais striker Kader Meite. 

They were also reportedly close to finalizing a £26 million transfer for Neom SC star Saimon Bouabre.

Al Nassr coach Jorge Jesus also voiced concerns. Last month, the Portuguese manager publicly criticized financial disparities in the Saudi Pro League, stating Al Nassr lacks the political influence of Al-Hilal. 

His remarks drew strong reactions from rivals, with Al Hilal requesting the league impose a six-month to one-year suspension on Jesus.

To date, neither Al Nassr nor Ronaldo's representatives have issued official statements regarding CR7's absence. 

However, this Portuguese media report has spread rapidly, fueling speculation about Cristiano Ronaldo's future in Saudi Arabia and the direction of PIF's management policies for their globally ambitious league.