Cristiano Ronaldo Back in Action: Al-Nassr Secure Victory After Dispute

Cristiano Ronaldo emphatically returned to Al-Nassr’s starting lineup, scoring a crucial goal against Al-Fateh following a period of absence fueled by a dispute over finances and transfer policies within the Saudi Pro League. The club captain’s return comes after missing two matches, a situation sparked by title rivals Al-Hilal’s high-profile signing of Karim Benzema, and perceived limitations on Al-Nassr’s own transfer market activity.

The Dispute and Ronaldo’s Absence

Ronaldo was reinstated as captain for Saturday’s Saudi Pro League clash with Al-Fateh, having sat out previous league fixtures against Al-Ittihad and Al-Riyadh. Reports indicated his absence was a deliberate protest linked to dissatisfaction with the club’s transfer strategy. He reportedly felt frustrated that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) didn’t significantly bolster Al-Nassr’s squad during the recent transfer window, while Al-Hilal continued to invest heavily, notably securing his former Real Madrid teammate, Benzema.

However, talks this week appear to have resolved the key issues, including overdue salary payments and restoring greater operational control to Al-Nassr’s executives. Following these discussions, Ronaldo agreed to return to action.

Ronaldo’s Impact on the Pitch

The Saudi Pro League issued a statement emphasizing Ronaldo’s commitment, stating: “Cristiano has been fully engaged with Al Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club’s growth and ambition. Like any elite competitor, he wants to win. But no individual – however significant – determines decisions beyond their own club.”

Ronaldo wasted no time proving his value upon his return. In the 18th minute, a pass from Sadio Mane found Ronaldo in the penalty area, and he finished with a precise strike into the bottom-right corner. Despite the chance having a relatively low expected goals (xG) value of 0.21, the quality of the finish was a testament to Ronaldo’s skill.

Before scoring, Ronaldo was actively involved in the attack, firing an early shot over the bar and attempting another from outside the box after a pass from Marcelo Brozovic. Chances also fell to Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman during the opening stages.

Title Race and Golden Boot Contention

Al-Nassr entered the match in third place, four points behind league leaders Al-Hilal, but with a game in hand, keeping their title hopes alive. Ronaldo is also in contention for the Golden Boot, trailing Al-Ahli’s Ivan Toney and Julian Quinones of Al-Qadsiah. His goal against Al-Fateh was his 17th of the campaign, a remarkable feat with many games remaining.

Looking Ahead

Ronaldo’s return appears to have resolved a tense situation between the player, club, and league stakeholders in Saudi Arabia. Al-Nassr’s focus now is firmly on football, and they cannot afford any further setbacks if they are to challenge Al-Hilal for the title. For Ronaldo, the objective is simple: continue scoring goals. His immediate impact against Al-Fateh suggests the dispute hasn’t diminished his sharpness or winning mentality, and his performance throughout the rest of the season will likely determine whether his second full campaign in Saudi Arabia ends with championship silverware.

For more information on the Saudi Pro League, visit Saudi Pro League Official Website.