Cristiano Ronaldo Between Tensions in Saudi Arabia and Legal Victory against Juventus
Cristiano Ronaldo is going through a pivotal period in his career, marked both by sporting tensions in Saudi Arabia and a significant legal victory in Europe. Here’s why.
Still under contract with Al-Nassr, the Portuguese superstar continues to make headlines far beyond the pitch. According to several sources, Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr includes a release clause set at £44 million, an amount that could theoretically open the door to a departure this summer. This hypothesis is all the more credible given that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is putting significant pressure on Saudi football’s decision-makers.
The Portuguese star has reportedly warned the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Saudi Pro League of his intention to leave the kingdom if he doesn’t receive more sporting guarantees. Ronaldo is said to be particularly frustrated by Al-Nassr’s recruitment policy and doesn’t understand how Al-Hilal was able to muster the resources to attract Karim Benzema, fueling a sense of inequality between state-backed clubs.
Despite this tense situation, Ronaldo remains immensely popular in Saudi Arabia. During a recent match, fans of both Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad showed their support for the Portuguese star. From the 7th minute onwards, banners bearing the number 7 were displayed in the stands, a powerful symbolic tribute to the man many still consider the GOAT.
Meanwhile, in Europe, Cristiano Ronaldo won a major legal battle. The Italian court ruled against Juventus, which was demanding the reimbursement of €9.8 million paid to the player in 2024. The dispute concerned salaries from the Covid period, during which Juve believed it had reached a salary reduction agreement with its players. Ronaldo, for his part, was claiming nearly €20 million in back pay related to his time in Turin before his departure in 2021. The court ruled in his favor.
As for a possible return to the Premier League, that option seems to be firmly closed. Manchester United has no interest in bringing Cristiano Ronaldo back for a third stint at Old Trafford, according to sources close to the club.
At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to wield considerable influence, whether on the sporting, economic, or political stage. Between his standoff with Saudi authorities and legal battles with his former club, the Portuguese star’s future remains more uncertain than ever—but still central to the world of football news.
