Ronaldo's Saudi Saga: Mutiny Ends, Future Hangs Between Two Fronts
3 February 2026
Context and Current Status
Portuguese reports say Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al Nassr, will end his mutiny and rejoin the squad for training on Wednesday under coach Jorge Jesus, a fellow countryman.
Ronaldo had sparked controversy in Saudi Arabia after refusing to participate in the Riyadh derby, in which Al Nassr won 1-0 in round 20 of the Roshen Saudi Pro League.
The move appeared to be a protest against the Saudi Public Investment Fund's policy, with Ronaldo arguing that Al Nassr receives less backing than Al Hilal.
The transfer of Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal before the winter window closed fueled Ronaldo's discontent and threats to depart.
According to Record, Ronaldo will train normally on Wednesday, preparing for the highly anticipated clash with Al Ittihad on Friday.
Contrary to Saudi press reports, Ronaldo did not leave Riyadh to pressure fund officials, and he has not skipped any team training session.
Saudi media figure Turki Al-Ghamdi confirmed the news on his program, saying Ronaldo would return to training at about 90 percent.
Record notes that Ronaldo's return does not guarantee he will stay beyond this season, as the 41-year-old is weighing his future and could depart at season's end.
The same source adds that an immediate return to the Portuguese league is unlikely, leaving his next move potentially in Europe or MLS, where Messi plays.
Despite his age, Ronaldo has registered 18 goals and 3 assists in 22 games across all competitions this season.
The saga continues to unfold, with fans and rivals alike watching closely as Ronaldo weighs his options.
Future prospects
Possible destinations include another European league or MLS, while a long stay in Saudi Arabia remains a live option depending on sponsorship dynamics and team plans.
Where Ronaldo ends up will shape the rest of the transfer window in the region, and perhaps rewrite a few chapters of modern football's tale.
Punchline 1: If patience were a weapon, Ronaldo would have fired a hat-trick of calm by now.
Punchline 2: And if a contract saga had a soundtrack, Ronaldo's would be a never-ending transfer window remix—call it "Cristiano: The Sequel."
