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Ronaldo's Silent Rebellion Sparks Uncertainty Before the Clasico

3 February 2026

Ronaldo's Silent Rebellion Sparks Uncertainty Before the Clasico
Ronaldo's absence looms over Clasico prep in Saudi Pro League.

Context

Ronaldo's anger casts doubt over his clash with Al Ittihad as transfer market rumors swirl.

Update

The Portuguese talisman of Al Nassr missed Tuesday morning training, according to sources close to El Saudia, with his absence linked to dissatisfaction with the club's winter mercato.

It remains unclear whether the star will feature in the upcoming Clasico against Al Ittihad in Round 20 of the Saudi Pro League, as he continues his protest over the mercato.

Coach Jorge Jesus has urged players who did not participate in yesterday's match to take part in a morning session in order to keep the squad physically sharp for the rest of the season.

Among those involved was new striker Abdullah Al-Hamdan, recently added to the squad, included in the technical and physical program prepared by the staff.

Sources say Ronaldo's absence could extend to the next match against Al Ittihad, with no official club statement yet on the reasons.

Punchline 1: If Ronaldo keeps this up, even the transfer window will file a missing-person report.

Punchline 2: Ronaldo's mercato drama is thriller-grade — great for headlines, not so great for the scoreboard.

Author

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Ronaldo miss training?

Sources cited dissatisfaction with Al Nassr's winter mercato and ongoing transfer discussions.

Will Ronaldo play in the Clasico vs. Al Ittihad?

It remains unclear; no official statement has been released yet.

Who trained in Ronaldo's absence?

Other squad members, including new striker Abdullah Al-Hamdan, participated in the session.