Cristiano Ronaldo, the global football icon, has made a surprising return to training with his Saudi Pro League club, Al-Nassr, even as he continues his high-profile strike. The 41-year-old Portuguese superstar, who earns a staggering £488,000 per day, had previously refused to play, casting doubt over his availability for the upcoming match against Al-Ittihad.
Uncertainty Over Match Participation
Despite being back on the pitch, Ronaldo's participation in the next game is still not confirmed. The forward is reportedly unhappy with the club's recruitment strategies and believes that Saudi backers are showing preferential treatment to rival teams. This discontent has led to his ongoing strike, which could see him boycott his second consecutive match.
Training Under Manager's Watch
In a recent training session, Ronaldo was observed working out under the supervision of manager Jorge Jesus. This move hints at a possible return to the team fold, especially since he had been training separately before. The superstar shared images of his training on social media, accompanied by blue and yellow heart emojis that represent Al-Nassr's club colors, reaching his massive audience of 671 million followers.
Recruitment Disputes and Rival Moves
Ronaldo's frustrations stem from perceived imbalances in the Saudi Pro League. He is seeking concrete guarantees from the Public Investment Fund (PIF) regarding changes to how Al-Nassr is managed. A key point of contention is the recent controversial transfer of Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal, which has been a bitter blow for Ronaldo.
Reports indicate that Ronaldo is aggrieved by the financial disparities, noting that Al-Hilal has had a net spend £180 million higher than Al-Nassr since the 2022-23 season, when he joined the club. As the league's biggest name and central marketing figure, his strike highlights deeper issues within the Saudi football landscape.
League Standings and Future Outlook
Currently, Al-Nassr holds second place in the Saudi Pro League table, trailing Al-Hilal by just one point and leading their next opponents by 12 points. This competitive position adds urgency to resolving Ronaldo's concerns, as his presence could be crucial in the title race. The situation remains fluid, with fans and analysts closely watching for updates on his status and the club's response to his demands.
