Al-Nassr achieved an important 2-0 victory against Al-Ittihad this Thursday, February 6, 2026, at Riade, for Campeonato Saudita. The result, valid for the 21st round of the tournament, was surprising with the star Cristiano Ronaldo as its central figure, even though he was not present on the field due to an issue that has been dragging on behind the scenes.
The absence of the 41-year-old Portuguese star marked the second consecutive match in which he was not included in the squad. Essa situation arises from a growing impasse involving his future at the club and his perception of the support of Fundo of Investimento Público (PIF) of Arábia Saudita, which manages financial contributions to the country’s main clubs.
According to local press reports, Cristiano Ronaldo expresses dissatisfaction with the fund’s apparent prioritization of other clubs, such as Al-Hilal. Essa discrepância se acentuou após o Al-Hilal realizar gastos significativos no mercado de transferências, incluindo a badalada contratação do atacante francês Karim Benzema.
The strong influence of Cristiano Ronaldo even off the field
Despite not being physically on the stadium lawn in Riade, the symbolic presence of Cristiano Ronaldo was undeniable and one of the highlights of the match. Logo seven minutes into the first half, in a clear allusion to his iconic shirt number, the Al-Nassr fans mobilized to raise signs with the number ‘7’ and the name ‘Ronaldo’, creating an impressive visual mosaic. Além In addition, a huge flag with the image of the Portuguese idol was displayed in the stands, reinforcing the affection and importance that the athlete still has for the fans in his fourth year at the club. Essa fervent demonstration of support was amplified in the final moments of the game, when Brazilian striker
The contractual imbroglio and dissatisfaction with the PIF fund
The absence of Cristiano Ronaldo from Al-Nassr’s relatives for the second consecutive game has deep roots in a discontent expressed by the player. The attacker expresses dissatisfaction with the lack of investment and support on the part of Fundo of Investimento Público of Arábia Saudita (PIF), according to local press reports. Para the star, there appears to be a prioritization of other clubs in the championship by the fund, which leaves him in a situation of impasse regarding his future in Saudi football. The perception of financial imbalance between the teams is a crucial point in their claims and has generated a scenario of uncertainty.
One of the main reasons that corroborate CR7’s dissatisfaction is the scenario of recent hiring at Campeonato Saudita. Al-Hilal, a direct rival to Al-Nassr, was one of the clubs that invested the most in the transfer market, leading spending after announcing big names like Karim Benzema. Essa disparity in investments, in the Portuguese’s view, signals the PIF’s preference for certain teams, harming the competitiveness and growth potential of
The number 7 shirt and his current contract
Since his arrival at Al-Nassr in 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo has established himself as a goals and assists machine for the Saudi club. In 127 games played, the striker accumulated an impressive 111 goals and contributed 22 assists, numbers that attest to his immediate impact and decision-making ability on the field, maintaining a high level of performance even at the age of 41.
Despite speculation and the current imbroglio, the Portuguese player’s contract with Al-Nassr is still in force, extending until June 2027.
Fan engagement and impact on social media
The loyalty of the Al-Nassr fans to Cristiano Ronaldo was a spectacle in itself during the confrontation against Al-Ittihad. The initiative of erecting plaques and the grandiose flag demonstrates the deep respect and admiration that fans have for their idol, even at a time of uncertainty about his stay at the club and his absence from the field.
The mobilization was not just limited to the stadium environment. Nas digital platforms, the club Al-Nassr made a point of widely disseminating images of the fans’ emotional tribute. Essas publications gained great reach, showing the strength of the fan base and the importance of CR7’s figure for the team’s brand globally.
Online engagement was reinforced by the athlete’s partner, Georgina Rodríguez, who promptly reposted the content shared by the club. Essa action further amplified the visibility of the tributes, taking the message of support to a global audience and generating additional buzz about the player’s current situation on social networks and in the media.
The intense reaction from the fans and the attention on social media underline Cristiano Ronaldo’s status as a figure who transcends the four lines of the field. Seu charisma, his winning record and his media impact continue to be a valuable asset for Al-Nassr, regardless of his direct performance in the most recent games.
The position of Al-Nassr in Campeonato Saudita
The victory over Al-Ittihad in the 21st round of Campeonato Saudita was crucial for Al-Nassr’s ambitions in the competition. The tournament has become increasingly competitive, with the main clubs investing heavily to form competitive squads, raising the technical and tactical level of the matches and the fight for the top of the table.
Maintaining regularity and gaining points in direct confrontations is essential for teams aiming for the title or places in prestigious continental competitions. The 2-0 result, obtained at home, strengthens the team’s morale and guarantees continuity in the pursuit of its objectives within the season, minimizing the impacts of possible absences or internal situations.
The Campeonato Saudita has attracted global attention with the arrival of big names in world football, making it a stage for great emotions and intense rivalries. In each round, the teams seek to overcome themselves, and Al-Nassr demonstrates that they are focused on their sporting performance, despite the behind the scenes involving their main star and the issues related to the PIF fund.
Future scenario and market speculation
The future of The future transfer window could bring significant news, with the possibility of negotiations for a possible exit before the end of his contract in June 2027, if the impasse with the PIF is not resolved to the player’s satisfaction or if irrefutable proposals arise from other major football centers.
