Saudi Arabian football officials are increasingly frustrated with Cristiano Ronaldo as the Al Nassr forward considers extending his personal protest by sitting out a second consecutive match, despite being declared fully fit and actively training with his teammates.
Sources close to the situation say senior figures within Saudi football circles are unhappy that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is contemplating another absence, viewing the move as damaging to both team momentum and the league’s image. Ronaldo, who has not been sidelined by injury, has reportedly made it clear that his continued non-participation is a deliberate decision rather than a fitness issue.
“There is growing concern that this situation is becoming unnecessary and counterproductive,” a Saudi football official said. “Cristiano is fit, he is training well, and the expectation is that senior players lead on the pitch, especially at critical moments.”
Ronaldo’s absence from the previous fixture sparked intense debate among fans and pundits, with speculation ranging from dissatisfaction over officiating to broader disagreements behind the scenes. While neither Al Nassr nor the Saudi Pro League has issued an official statement explaining his decision, officials are said to be keen to draw a line under the episode swiftly.
Another source familiar with discussions at league level said patience is “not unlimited,” stressing that while Ronaldo remains a global icon and a key figure in Saudi football’s international profile, discipline and commitment apply to all players. “No individual is bigger than the competition,” the source added.
Despite the tension, Ronaldo has continued to train normally with his teammates, suggesting that a return to action could still be imminent. For now, however, uncertainty hangs over his availability, with Saudi football authorities watching closely and hoping the standoff does not escalate further.
