Cristiano Ronaldo will not be available to play when Al Nassr faces Al Riyadh on Monday, February 2. According to local reports, it was initially stated that it was due to some load management, which is a key game scheduled on Friday, January 6, against Al Ittihad.
Why is Cristiano Ronaldo not playing for Al Nassr vs Al Riyadh?
However, according to Fabrizio Romano, the 40-year-old is not injured, and his absence is not related to any workload.
The Italian journalist wrote on his social media account:
“His absence is not related to any physical issue nor to workload or fitness management.”
The reason for his not appearing for the game is somewhat unclear. But, as per a report by Bola, the reason the Portuguese superstar decided not to play the game is part of a protest against his club's owner, the Public Investment Fund (PIF).
It had been reported that the Real Madrid legend believes the PIF, Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, is not investing in Al Nassr as much as in the other Saudi teams it owns, namely Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, and Al Hilal.
Ronaldo’s side has just made one signing this winter, which was when acquiring Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem for $500,000. On the other hand, Al Hilal made a €30 million signing of Rennes forward Kader Meite. Additionally, the club also signed former Arsenal defender Pablo Mari from Fiorentina.
It remains to be seen how Al Nassr tackles this situation, as the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s absence will be a huge blow for the title-chasing sides. They are second in the Saudi Pro League, following Al Hilal by three points.