Cristiano Ronaldo’s shock move to the Saudi Pro League in early 2022 reshaped global football, inspiring a wave of superstar signings across the kingdom. But the harmony that once defined his relationship with Saudi Arabia’s long‑term football project the Public Investment Fund (PIF) now appears to be cracking.
According to ESPN sources, tensions between Ronaldo and PIF have intensified in recent weeks, leading the Portuguese icon to boycott two consecutive Al‑Nassr matches. The dispute reportedly centres on transfer‑market decisions, particularly PIF’s push to move Karim Benzema from Al‑Ittihad to Al‑Hilal a move Ronaldo allegedly viewed as unfair and one that would tilt the title race in Al‑Hilal’s favour.
Frustrated with what he sees as inconsistent or biased transfer policies, Ronaldo chose to sit out the matches in protest. Insiders say he is even considering leaving the club in June if the current approach is not changed.
The standoff marks one of the most serious internal conflicts since Saudi Arabia began its high‑profile football overhaul. With PIF controlling the league’s biggest clubs and shaping its long‑term strategy, Ronaldo’s dissatisfaction could have significant implications for both Al‑Nassr and the broader Saudi football project.
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