"This has been a difficult season, not just on the field but also behind the scenes," Ronaldo stated in a press conference following Al Nassr's 2-0 victory over Al Ahli on 30/4. "We know the strength of other teams, but I will have the opportunity to explain more when the season concludes."

In early 2026, Ronaldo previously opted not to play for Al Nassr as a form of protest against the club's policy. At that time, rivals Al Hilal strengthened their squad by signing Karim Benzema – his former Real Madrid teammate – from Al Ittihad during the winter transfer window.

Ronaldo celebrates the opening goal against Al Ahli on 30/4. *Photo: Saudi Pro League*

Despite past disappointments, the Portuguese forward is striving to help Al Nassr secure their first league championship since 2019, which would also be his first personal title since joining the club in 12/2022. The recent victory over Al Ahli, where Ronaldo scored the opening goal, marked Al Nassr's 18th consecutive win in the Saudi Pro League. They now need to earn 8 points from their remaining 4 matches (or 5 points if they defeat direct rivals Al Hilal in the penultimate round) to clinch the championship.

"The title race will go down to the wire," the Portugal captain affirmed. "Today was a tough game. We knew we were facing one of the league's formidable teams. My career has been brilliant and continues. The most important thing is to keep moving forward, score goals, and enjoy the game. But winning is paramount. We truly crave this championship."

Even when Al Ahli defender Merih Demiral, a former Juventus teammate, reminded him that they had won the AFC Champions League twice, Ronaldo smiled and wittily retorted, "But I have five Champions League titles! I have five!"

Scene of Al Ahli's Merih Demiral showing off the AFC Champions League 2026 winner's medal after their loss to Al Nassr

Demiral also publicly complained to the press after the match, alleging that Ronaldo's team receives excessive favoritism from referees, enabling Al Nassr to win a title. In response, the 1985-born superstar stated that such remarks are detrimental to the league.

"Everyone complains; this is football, not war," Ronaldo said. "We know we must fight, and everyone wants to win, but not all behavior is acceptable." He has begun to speak out but intends to delve into more detail soon: "I will say everything at the end of the season because I have witnessed too many bad things."

"Many players complain, posting on Instagram and Facebook about referees, the Saudi Pro League, and this project. This is not good and does not align with the league's goals. We should be an example, not just here but also for Europe, demonstrating that we want to compete to become one of the world's top leagues. However, with this current situation, I believe we need to reflect and put an end to such criticism... because, to me, that is not football," Ronaldo emphasized.

At age 41, Ronaldo has brought unprecedented attention to Saudi Arabian football. When shown a video of a young fan celebrating and asked about his legacy, he stated: "For me, it's an honor. That's why I continue to play, not just for the current generation but also for those before and after. I try to enjoy each day, each match, year by year, because the reality is that the end of my career is approaching."

Ha Phuong (via ESPN)