Cristiano Ronaldo Ends Al Nassr Standoff After PIF Resolves Financial Issues
Cristiano Ronaldo is set to return to action for Al Nassr after reportedly ending his brief standoff with the club, following decisive intervention from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
The 41-year-old Portuguese superstar had been absent from recent Saudi Pro League fixtures against Al Riyadh and Al Ittihad, raising questions about his availability and future at the club. However, Ronaldo will once again be at Jorge Jesus’ disposal after key internal disputes were resolved.
According to Portuguese outlet NOW, high-level talks were held between Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr’s senior management, and representatives of the PIF—the sovereign wealth fund heavily invested in the Saudi Pro League’s top clubs.
During the meeting, the PIF reportedly cleared all outstanding salary payments at Al Nassr and injected sufficient funds to cover the club’s operational expenses through the remainder of the season. This move addressed the core financial concerns that had contributed to Ronaldo’s decision to withhold his services.
In addition, Jose Semedo’s authority within the club structure was reinstated, removing another major point of contention. With these issues settled, the primary obstacles that led Ronaldo to refuse selection have now been resolved.
Next meeting in the calendar 🗓️ pic.twitter.com/i8yntGszhD
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) February 8, 2026
The only remaining concern, according to the same report, relates to Al Nassr’s winter transfer activity, particularly when compared to the aggressive reinforcements made by league leaders Al Hilal during the January window.
With tensions eased, Cristiano Ronaldo is back in contention and is expected to start against Al Fateh on Saturday in Matchday 22 of the Saudi Pro League.
Al Nassr’s schedule also includes a Round of 16 clash against Arkadag of Turkmenistan in the AFC Champions League Two on Thursday. As has been the case in previous matches in the competition, Ronaldo is expected to be managed carefully to protect his physical condition.