Ronaldo’s Saudi stay suddenly looks less certain
Cristiano Ronaldo’s next move is back under the microscope after Karim Benzema’s reported switch to Al-Hilal reignited talk of internal tensions in Saudi football’s power structure. Ronaldo, now 40, was absent from Al-Nassr’s 1-0 Saudi Pro League victory over Al-Riyadh on Monday, a detail that immediately fed speculation given the timing of Benzema’s move being confirmed the same day.
According to a transfer-rumour round-up published by The Guardian, the latest chatter suggests Ronaldo is unhappy with the way Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is influencing decision-making at both Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr. The underlying claim is that Ronaldo is frustrated a direct rival has landed one of his most famous former Real Madrid teammates, potentially tilting the domestic hierarchy.
On its face, the narrative makes for compelling copy: the Saudi Pro League’s marquee figure questioning whether the project still serves his competitive ambitions, just as a rival super-club strengthens. Yet, at this stage, it remains firmly in the realm of rumour rather than a confirmed indication of Ronaldo pushing for the exit door.
Why Benzema’s move matters
Benzema’s arrival at Al-Hilal would represent more than a headline transfer. It would signal a shift in momentum between Saudi Arabia’s biggest clubs, with Al-Hilal already widely viewed as a benchmark for squad depth and recruitment. If Al-Nassr’s talisman believes recruitment is being steered in a way that benefits competitors, it creates an obvious flashpoint—especially for a player whose legacy is built on being at the centre of the biggest sporting decisions.
Infographic
Player in focus: Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr)
Transfer catalyst: Karim Benzema to Al-Hilal (reported)
Flashpoint: PIF influence across top Saudi clubs
Latest clue: Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr’s win vs Al-Riyadh
Premier League subplot: McNeil, Palace and a deal that changed shape
Elsewhere in the same report, another storyline emerged from the Premier League market. Crystal Palace were said to be close to agreeing a deal for Everton winger Dwight McNeil before plans shifted late in the process. The reported trigger was Jean-Philippe Mateta’s mooted move to Milan collapsing, leaving Palace to reconsider their approach.
Per The Guardian’s round-up, Palace lodged a late bid in the region of £20m for McNeil but subsequently preferred a loan arrangement with an option to buy, rather than committing to a full purchase without first moving Mateta on.
Key Takeaways
- Ronaldo’s absence from Al-Nassr’s win over Al-Riyadh has added fuel to speculation about his short-term future.
- Benzema’s reported transfer to Al-Hilal is being framed as a major factor in renewed Ronaldo rumours.
- PIF’s influence across leading Saudi clubs is cited as a point of internal frustration in the rumour mill.
- Crystal Palace’s move for Dwight McNeil reportedly shifted from a £20m bid toward a loan-plus-option structure.
