"I am very happy," Ronaldo told Saudi Arabian television channel Thmanyah after Al Hazem's 4-0 victory on 22/2. "As I have said many times, I belong to Saudi Arabia. This is a country that has welcomed me, my family, and my friends with warmth and kindness. I want to continue my commitment here and my journey with Al Nassr."

Ronaldo celebrates a goal during Al Nassr's 4-0 win over Al Hazem in the Saudi Pro League on 21/2. Photo: Al Nassr

The 41-year-old superstar had previously been absent from consecutive matches, including his team's victories against Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, as well as the match against Arkadag in the AFC Champions League Two.

Ronaldo's absence stemmed from his dissatisfaction with the operation of the Saudi Arabian football system, particularly the role of the Public Investment Fund (PIF). The Al Nassr captain believed that the four major clubs under PIF – Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli – were not treated equally regarding resources and support policies.

Statistics indicate that rival club Al Hilal has had a net spending of 213 million USD more than Al Nassr since Ronaldo joined the Saudi Pro League. During the 1/2025 transfer window, Ronaldo expressed frustration that Al Hilal could mobilize significant resources to sign Karim Benzema, while Al Nassr faced many limitations.

Beyond professional issues, social factors were also a cause for concern. Some Al Nassr staff members experienced delayed salaries during a period of instability for the team. Ronaldo raised this issue in discussions with the board, considering it an integral part of the negotiation process.

Two Portuguese directors at Al Nassr, Jose Semedo and Simao Coutinho, also had their managerial authority reinstated, after their roles were restricted from late 12/2025. Semedo and Coutinho were initially appointed directors due to their close relationship with Ronaldo.

However, Ronaldo returned for the match against Al Fateh on 15/2, ending his three-match "strike" by contributing one goal to a 2-0 victory. Following this, Ronaldo scored two goals in the dominant win against Al Hazem last weekend, a result that put Al Nassr at the top of the league table, one point ahead of second-placed Al Hilal.

"The most important thing is that we must continue to strive for the championship race. Al Nassr is leading. We will do our job well, which is to be confident and tackle each match one by one. Let's wait for the results at the end of the season," Ronaldo emphasized.

Ronaldo (center) enthusiastic during training with Al Nassr on 20/2. Photo: Al Nassr

Having joined Al Nassr from Man Utd in 12/2022, Ronaldo signed a new two-year contract in 6/2025, which includes a 60 million USD release clause and an income equivalent to 660,000 USD per day.

During the 1985-born superstar's absence, Saudi Pro League organizers asserted that Ronaldo's complaints were unfounded. "Every club operates independently under the same financial regulations to ensure sustainability and competitive balance. Ronaldo plays a crucial role in Al Nassr's development, but no individual can be above the collective," stated the league's announcement.

Despite his antics, Ronaldo received absolute support from Al Nassr fans. Supporters waved colored papers printed with the number 7 in the stands when he was absent. And after the recent win against Al Hazem, with two goals increasing his career tally to 964 and reaching the milestone of 500 goals since turning 30, the Portuguese superstar was presented with the traditional Bisht robe by the club.

Compiled by Ha Phuong