By : Osabuohien Imuetinyanosa
Cristiano Ronaldo is currently at a pivotal juncture in his career, marked by mounting tensions in Saudi Arabia and a significant legal triumph in Europe.
Still under contract with Al-Nassr, the Portuguese forward continues to generate headlines off the pitch. Reports indicate that Ronaldo’s contract includes a release clause set at £44 million, a figure that could facilitate a potential departure this summer. This scenario appears increasingly plausible as the five-time Ballon d’Or winner reportedly exerts pressure on Saudi football authorities for greater sporting assurances.
Sources suggest that Ronaldo has informed both the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Saudi Pro League of his intention to leave the kingdom should his demands not be met. The player is understood to be frustrated by Al-Nassr’s recruitment strategy, particularly in light of Al-Hilal’s ability to secure Karim Benzema, a move that has heightened perceptions of disparity between the state-backed clubs.
Despite these tensions, Ronaldo maintains considerable popularity in Saudi Arabia. During a recent match, supporters of both Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad demonstrated their admiration for the Portuguese star. From the 7th minute onwards, banners displaying his iconic number 7 were prominently displayed in the stands, underscoring his enduring status as one of football’s greatest.
Meanwhile, in Europe, Ronaldo secured a major legal victory. An Italian court ruled in his favor against Juventus, which had sought the reimbursement of €9.8 million paid to the player in 2024. The dispute centered on salaries during the COVID-19 pandemic, with Juventus asserting that it had agreed to temporary salary reductions with its players. Ronaldo had claimed nearly €20 million in back pay related to his tenure in Turin prior to his departure in 2021, and the court upheld his claims.
Speculation regarding a potential return to the Premier League appears to have been decisively curtailed. Sources close to Manchester United have confirmed that the club has no intention of bringing Ronaldo back for a third spell at Old Trafford.
At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to wield substantial influence across sporting, economic, and political spheres. Between his standoff with Saudi authorities and ongoing legal matters with Juventus, the Portuguese forward’s future remains uncertain—yet his presence continues to command global attention within the football world.
