Cristiano Ronaldo has intensified his standoff with Saudi Pro League authorities, boycotting a second consecutive league match amid unresolved concerns over club management.
Sources told ESPN that the Portugal captain boycotted his side’s league fixture against Al Riyadh and is also planning to sit out the upcoming clash against Al Ittihad. The move follows the absence of a concrete guarantee from the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund that changes will be made to the club’s management structure.
According to sources, Ronaldo has made it clear that he will maintain his position unless firm assurances are provided in the coming weeks. Despite ongoing discussions behind the scenes, no binding commitment has reportedly been communicated.
The situation has also cast doubt over Ronaldo’s future in Saudi Arabia. Sources said the forward is prepared to formally request to leave in June if the management concerns remain unresolved.
Ronaldo’s continued absence from league fixtures represents a significant challenge for the Saudi Pro League, where he remains its most prominent global figure and a key driver of international visibility.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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