Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Al-Nassr training, dispelling rumors of a strike prompted by perceived preferential treatment from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) towards other clubs. The 40-year-old was reportedly unhappy with PIF's management of Al-Nassr, particularly in comparison to rivals Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli.

Ronaldo's discontent reportedly stemmed from Al-Nassr's perceived lack of transfer activity during the winter window. He was said to be frustrated that Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli were being strengthened while Al-Nassr's sole signing was 21-year-old Iraqi center-back Hayder Abdulkareem. A key point of contention was Karim Benzema's move to Al-Hilal, which Ronaldo reportedly viewed as further evidence of preferential treatment.

The absence of Ronaldo, who earns around £500,000 per day, from Al-Nassr's Saudi Pro League match against Al-Riyadh on Monday, February 2, 2026, fueled speculation about a potential departure. It was believed that Ronaldo was protesting the club's management.

However, Ronaldo has since signaled his return to the team by sharing a picture of himself back in Al-Nassr training. Despite the unrest, a return to his home country has been ruled out. He also signed a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr last June, reportedly earning £168 million per year.

While the situation seems to be de-escalating, some reports suggest that Ronaldo could still leave Al-Nassr as early as June if his concerns are not addressed. He reportedly has a "secret" release clause in his contract worth £43 million.

A PIF representative responded to the criticism by arguing that Al-Nassr has received over $470 million in financial support, but their performance has not matched that of rivals like Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad, who have secured major titles with less investment.

Al-Nassr is currently trailing Al-Hilal by a single point in the league standings. Ronaldo's return to training comes ahead of a crucial match against Al-Ittihad on Friday, where a win could propel Al-Nassr to the top of the league. It remains uncertain whether he will feature in the match.

Ronaldo's frustration reportedly stems from Al Nassr's poor transfer activity and lack of ambition during the January window. Despite his age, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner remains driven by the ambition to lift the Saudi Pro League trophy for the first time.