Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, signals Al-Nassr exit to Saudi League and PIF bosses, per TalkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs. Boycotting games sans injury—skipped Riyadh Feb 2, 2026—over perceived favoritism to Al-Hilal (Jesus-led, €647M spends) and Ittihad vs. Nassr’s €410M. League fires back: “No individual above clubs.” €50M buyout from June 2026; World Cup prep drives.
Funding Flashpoint: Stark Disparities
PIF tilts scales, claims CR7: Hilal splurges €647M on stars post-2023, Nassr lags at €410M. Strategic snubs hobble Riyadh club’s title push.
Boycott as Power Play
Absences pure protest vs. Federation—no fitness issue. Trains solo, leverages global brand to squeeze PIF.
League’s Firm Rebuttal
Marca communique: “Clubs autonomous; Ronaldo vital but no one overrides team interests.” Highlights tight top-four race.
Analysis & Context
Ripple to Global Transfers
Turkey (Galatasaray?) and MLS eye chaos; €50M clause viable for icon. Undermines Saudi soccer empire.
World Cup 2026 North Star
At 41, primes for Portugal’s swan song. Exit reshapes sports diplomacy.
Takeaways:
- Injury-free boycott targets PIF.
- Hilal €647M dwarfs Nassr €410M.
- League insists club independence.
- €50M exit June 2026.
- Turkey/MLS lurking.
- Eyes WC fitness.
