Ronaldo’s Cry in Riyadh Sparks a Buzz in the Saudi Pro League
4 February 2026
Overview
Recent weeks have brought dramatic shifts in the Saudi Pro League following the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al Nassr, from the Riyadh clash in Round 20, a 1-0 victory attributed to Sadio Mane for the team nicknamed the World.
Transfers and tensions
The Spanish daily Sport said Ronaldo, 40, was not sidelined by injury or form but expressed strong displeasure at the Public Investment Fund's distribution of financial and investment backing among its owned clubs — including Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad.
The moment is framed by Karim Benzema's move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal late in the winter window, along with other signings by the "Leaders" such as young striker Mohammed Meety and Spanish defender Pablo Mari.
The paper notes Ronaldo views Al Nassr as a lower priority for financial support despite coach Jorge Jesus's calls for big reinforcements to challenge for the title; winter deals were limited to Haider Abdul Karim, the Iraqi youngster.
On-field and off-field ripple effects
The tension persisted with Ronaldo missing additional training sessions, prompting questions about his participation in upcoming matches, especially against Al Ittihad in Round 21.
Still, the paper says Ronaldo is gradually returning to group training, suggesting a potential easing of the crisis ahead of decisive title-chases as Al Nassr sits second, just one point behind Al Hilal.
Off the pitch, satire flavored the events: posters in Riyadh depicted Ronaldo as a "missing" figure, with quips such as "a man in his forties having a crying crisis, his family is looking for him," circulated by some Al Hilal fans to poke at the rival.
The article notes that organizers remain unknown, but the posts sparked wide engagement on social media.
Sniper punchline 1: If tears could transfer players, Ronaldo would have a full squad by now. Sniper punchline 2: In this league, the memes move faster than the ball—welcome to the transfer window’s quieter cousin, the punchline window.
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