sports
February 3, 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo’s no-show leaves Saudi Pro League facing awkward questions
League’s star said to be unhappy over his club’s transfer dealings and Karim Benzema’s move. Now he could face his first backlash
TL;DR
- The Saudi Pro League title race is a close contest between Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ahli.
- Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly on strike, unhappy with his club Al-Nassr's transfer window investment and considering leaving.
- Karim Benzema also went on strike at Al-Ittihad due to contract disagreements and has since joined Al-Nassr.
- Both Ronaldo and Benzema are linked to the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns the 'Big Four' Saudi clubs.
- Sami Al-Jaber suggests that the excessive power and uncontrolled behavior of global stars pose a crisis for the league.
- The league must determine whether the PIF, clubs, or star players hold the ultimate authority.
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