Ronaldo’s Absence Could Diminish Saudi League Appeal

Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to the Saudi Pro League has not only transformed the league’s global profile but also stirred controversy within its corridors. Reflecting on the situation, German football legend and former Real Madrid midfielder Tony Kroos posed a striking question: “How many people followed the Saudi Pro League before Ronaldo arrived?” He added bluntly that, in truth, few had even heard of it prior to the Portuguese superstar’s arrival.

Kroos’ remarks come against the backdrop of mounting tensions between Ronaldo and his club, Al Nassr. The 41-year-old striker missed Al Nassr’s last two fixtures, reportedly due to dissatisfaction with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al Nassr alongside three other prominent Saudi clubs—Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli.

Ronaldo is understood to be frustrated that the PIF prioritises rival clubs in the transfer market. A recent example is the approval for Karim Benzema’s move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal, which he perceives as evidence of unequal treatment. Following his protest, the Saudi Pro League issued a firm statement emphasising that all clubs operate independently under the league’s regulations, and that no individual—regardless of their stature—can make decisions beyond their own club.

Kroos, speaking on his podcast as reported by Portuguese outlet O Jogo, described the league as “rather unusual.” He said: “Before Ronaldo, hardly anyone knew about the Saudi Pro League. Now, they are disrespecting the very person who put them on the football map. If Cristiano leaves tomorrow, this league will lose much of its appeal. Without him, nobody will watch the Saudi League.”

The two legends share a significant history at Real Madrid. Over four years, Kroos and Ronaldo played 170 matches together, combining for 16 goals and assists, and logging 14,009 minutes on the pitch. Their partnership yielded three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles and a La Liga championship.

Ronaldo has now returned to Al Nassr training ahead of their AFC Champions League 2 fixture against Turkmenistan’s Arkadag. He will, however, sit out this match, with a return anticipated in the Saudi Pro League against Al Fateh on 14 February. His contract with Al Nassr runs until June 2027.

This season, Ronaldo leads the scoring charts with 17 goals in 18 league matches, making him the league’s top scorer at 41 years old. His release clause stands at £4.3 million, and he earns a daily wage of £400,000 (approximately 66.6 million Bangladeshi Taka). Speculation is rife that Ronaldo could leave Al Nassr during the upcoming summer transfer window, with potential destinations including European clubs or Major League Soccer in the United States.

Ronaldo’s Key Statistics – Saudi Pro League 2025–26

Ronaldo’s presence has undeniably elevated the Saudi Pro League’s profile, drawing international attention and boosting television ratings. Yet, his current dispute highlights the delicate balance between star power and league governance, underscoring how much the league’s appeal remains tied to a single global superstar.