Saudi Pro League Drama: Ronaldo and Benzema Face a Scathing Wake-Up Call from Walid Al-Farraj
2 February 2026
Ronaldo and Benzema under the spotlight
The Saudi media figure Walid Al-Farraj criticized Cristiano Ronaldo, star of Al-Nassr, and Karim Benzema, the striker linked with Al-Ittihad, for their recent conduct.
Benzema’s stand against Al-Ittihad over a renewal reportedly hints at a possible move to Al-Hilal.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo is said to have refused to play in today’s Riyadh clash, with reports claiming he is unhappy with the Public Investment Fund's management and with what he sees as unequal treatment from the domestic federation compared to rivals, notably Al-Hilal.
Al-Farraj commented on X, imagining a Manchester City player refusing to play a match in protest at the owner's decisions and another Arsenal player stopping games for the second time due to not agreeing to a renewal offer. He added that it’s almost impossible for any player to dare do that in the English Premier League; that is how the top leagues are run.
A linked recap shows a Saudi Pro League fixture between Riyadh and Al-Nassr, scheduled for February 2, 2026 at 16:15.
Punchline 1: If drama were a league, Ronaldo and Benzema would be top scorers in headlines.
Punchline 2: In this transfer soap opera, renewals are more contested than the title itself.
