Cristiano Ronaldo Ready to leave Al-Nasser in June and will end his career in Europe or the United States, according to reports.

Ronaldo’s frustration with the lack of respect he has been shown in Saudi Arabia in recent days has grown and he made himself unavailable for yesterday’s 1-0 win at Al-Riyadh.

Al-Nasr’s next game is on Friday as they continue their fight for the Pro League title.

What is the reason for Ronaldo’s disappointment?

Essentially, it’s Karim Benzema’s move from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal. The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) owns both clubs, as well as Ronaldo’s Al-Nasr and Al-Ahli. Al-Hilal are clear of a point at the top of the Pro League and Ronaldo believes the PIF is helping them in the title race by allowing them to sign his former Real Madrid team-mate. Al-Hilal have also signed the likes of Kader Meite and Simon Boubre in the January window. Al-Nasr was allowed two less important arrivals in Abdullah al-Hamdan and Haidir Abdulkarim.

Why does Ronaldo feel disrespected?

Ronaldo has been the face of Saudi Arabia’s bid to become a major player in world football since he moved to the Middle East in 2022. He is seen as the man who opened the door for the likes of Benzema, Sadio Mane, Neymar and Ruben Neves. Ronaldo has spoken frequently with the Saudis and even accompanied Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on a backslapping trip to the White House to meet US President Donald Trump in November 2025.

What was said in public?

Very little. Al-Nasr coach Jorge Jesus was expected to provide some clarity on Ronaldo’s situation after yesterday’s game but the club’s players and coaching staff opted for a media blackout. Saudi Arabia’s culture means that public criticism of any institution with ties to the royal family – bin Salman chairs the PIF – is unlikely.

What is Ronaldo’s contract status?

Ronaldo signed a new contract with Al-Nasr in June last year which will run until June 2027 when he turns 42. That’s a reported £488k a day. however, Reports in Portugal suggest the deal has a clause enabling the former Manchester United man to leave in June for €50m. Until you realize Ronaldo’s income it would be foolish to spend that amount on a player with no resale value and to pass on his best.

What are Ronaldo’s options?

Ronaldo’s apparent displeasure will upset those in Saudi’s well-oiled PR machine. It would not go down well if someone of that global popularity questioned PIF’s methods not in words, but in actions and it is certain that they will work hard to find a solution. The form that takes is more difficult to predict. The transfer window is now closed so PIF cannot fund a big arrival to appease Ronaldo.
So, the 40-year-old has to either suck it up or outline his intention to move on. His availability for the game with Al-Ittihad in three days’ time should give us more clues.

If he goes, where can he go?

Ronaldo will have to take a huge pay cut if he leaves Saudi Arabia. Reports suggest that clubs in Major League Soccer will be interested and there could be scope for a deal similar to that enjoyed by Ronaldo’s great rival – Lionel Messi – at Inter Miami. The Argentine’s wages are complemented by lucrative sponsorship deals with the likes of Apple.
Its options in Europe are not exactly clear. A return to Real Madrid while Florentino Perez remains in charge is unlikely while Manchester United would consider a third spell at Old Trafford.
He may opt to retire after this summer’s World Cup but has already made his desire to reach 1,000 career goals clear.