Ronaldo's Standstill: Salary Tensions Keep Him Benched Before the Saudi Clasico

Ronaldo's strike persists ahead of the Clasico

New reports reveal another reason Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr's captain, is pressing his strike ahead of the classic against archrivals Al Ittihad.

Al Nassr will host Al Ittihad tomorrow, Friday, at Al Nassr Park, as the Saudi Pro League resumes with a high-stakes round 21 clash.

Saudi outlet Al Riyadia confirmed Ronaldo has been left out of the squad, underscoring his resolve to keep the protest going.

A Bola, the Portuguese publication, stated the strike is not solely about Ronaldo's view of rival financial backing in the winter window.

The article adds Ronaldo's anger also stems from delayed salaries, and he will continue the boycott until those payments are made; he could rejoin if the issue is resolved in the coming hours.

Note: Al Nassr sits second in the Saudi Pro League with 46 points, one point behind leaders Al Hilal.

Note on the larger context: the Clasico remains a marquee event, with or without Ronaldo, as the title race tightens and fans debate the behind-the-scenes dynamics of football economics.

Punchline 1: If patience were a position, Ronaldo would be captain of the bench. Punchline 2: Meanwhile, the salary saga might become the most entertaining subplot of the season—cineaste level cliffhanger without a spoiler alert.