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Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese forward, reportedly considered leaving Al Nassr in the summer of 2026. Multiple sources indicated that he weighed a potential return to Europe or a move to Major League Soccer in the United States.
Portuguese newspaper Record first reported the development. Ronaldo expressed frustration with Al Nassr’s management and the support provided by the club’s owners, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). The fund also owned rival clubs such as Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad.
Ronaldo believed PIF blocked key signings for Al Nassr while allowing other teams to strengthen their squads. For example, Al Hilal secured Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad during the winter transfer window. Al Nassr remained relatively quiet in the market.
The 40-year-old forward, who turned 41 shortly after the reports emerged, earned approximately £488,000 per day at Al Nassr. Daily Mail cited this figure and described him as the highest-paid footballer in history. Despite his substantial salary, Ronaldo initiated a strike. He absented himself from Al Nassr’s match against Al Riyadh, which the team won 1-0.Reports described Ronaldo’s action as a protest against the club’s direction. His contract with Al Nassr ran until the summer of 2027 following a two-year extension signed the previous summer. However, the deal reportedly included a €50 million (£43 million) release clause. Clubs could activate this clause in the summer.
Options for Ronaldo included a return to European football, where he aimed to pursue his goal of reaching 1,000 career goals. Major League Soccer also emerged as a possibility. Some MLS clubs showed interest and could plan for a mid-season arrival if he departed in June.
Ronaldo did not confirm any decision to leave. He returned to training with Al Nassr shortly after the reports surfaced. He posted images from the session, which suggested ongoing commitment to the club. Saudi officials expressed surprise at his dissatisfaction and expected him to resume playing.
