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Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return to action for Al Nassr after bringing an end to his recent dispute with the Saudi Pro League club, sources told ESPN Brasil.
The Portugal captain had missed two matches, Al Nassr’s 2-0 victory over Al Ittihad on Friday and last week’s win against Al Riyadh, amid reported frustration over issues involving Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and its role in the club’s affairs.
Sources indicated that Ronaldo has now decided to rejoin the squad and is set to feature in Al Nassr’s league clash against Al Fateh on February 14.
The Riyadh-based side are also scheduled to play Arkadag in the AFC Champions League Two on Wednesday.
Reports suggested Ronaldo’s absence stemmed from dissatisfaction with the PIF’s involvement in transfer dealings and broader club management.
The situation intensified after Al Nassr’s rivals, Al Hilal, also majority-owned by the PIF, secured the signing of Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate, Karim Benzema, from Al Ittihad during the January transfer window.
However, the matter appears to have been resolved after Ronaldo’s key concerns were addressed.
According to sources, overdue salaries at Al Nassr were cleared, and authority was restored to the club’s senior management.
Sporting director Simão Coutinho and CEO José Semedo, who had previously been suspended, have reportedly resumed their duties.
Ronaldo has been in impressive form this season, scoring 18 goals and providing three assists in 22 appearances across competitions.
Al Nassr currently sit second in the Saudi Pro League standings, just one point behind leaders Al Hilal, keeping the title race finely poised.
Last week, the Saudi Pro League issued a statement stressing that no individual player could influence decisions beyond their club, reiterating that all teams operate independently under the same regulatory and financial framework.
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