Cristiano Ronaldo ‘Unhappy’ at Al-Nassr as Summer Exit Plans Emerge

By: Shawn
‎Cristiano Ronaldo may be heading for a summer departure from Al-Nassr, with potential moves to Major League Soccer or back to Europe being discussed for the Portugal legend. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has a €50 million (£43m/$59m) release clause in his contract ahead of the next transfer window, meaning he would attract significant interest should he choose to leave the Saudi Pro League.
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Cristiano Ronaldo could leave Al-Nassr this summer amid reported unhappiness, with MLS and a European return among possible destinations.
‎Getty Images Sport 
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‎Reports from Portuguese outlet Record suggest that Ronaldo has grown unhappy with his situation at Al-Nassr and is open to walking away when the season ends. Despite being 41 years old, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has no intention of retiring. Among the options available is a switch to the United States, where he could once again face long-time rival Lionel Messi, now starring for Inter Miami. A return to European football has also been mentioned, although no specific club has been identified.
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‎Ronaldo’s frustration is reportedly linked to his treatment by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which controls Al-Nassr alongside Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli. He is said to believe that PIF are favouring Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League title race. This belief has been strengthened by the decision to move his former teammate Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal.
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‎Although Ronaldo has yet to win the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Nassr, he feels he deserves greater recognition from PIF, especially given the global attention he has helped bring to the league. In addition, he has agreed to serve as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup bid. Despite this, he refused to feature for Al-Nassr and was absent from their 1-0 victory over Al-Riyadh on Monday.
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‎Back in October 2025, Ronaldo spoke positively about his future in Saudi Arabia, expressing pride in the league’s development. He highlighted his desire to see long-term progress not only among top teams but also within youth academies, stating that his dream was for Saudi football to compete with other major leagues worldwide.
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‎Reflecting on his time at the club, Ronaldo pointed to the 2023 King Salman Arab Clubs Cup as his standout memory. He scored both goals in the 2-1 final win over Al-Hilal, describing it as an intense and memorable experience. While pleased with winning a trophy in his first year, he stressed his hunger for more success and his determination to help Al-Nassr secure further titles.
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‎Ronaldo remains under contract until 2027, but the presence of a release clause could prompt clubs to make a move this summer. Former Al-Nassr manager Stefano Pioli has previously spoken about the special treatment given to the Portuguese star, praising his professionalism, leadership, and relentless work ethic.
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‎Attention now turns to Al-Nassr’s upcoming clash with Al-Ittihad on Friday, a fixture that could carry political undertones if Ronaldo is absent. With Al-Nassr sitting just one point behind Al-Hilal, questions remain over whether bids will arrive for Ronaldo ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where he is expected to represent Portugal.

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