Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Al-Nassr training after missing the Saudi Pro League match against Al-Riyadh earlier this week, signalling a potential end to his protest over club management issues.
The Portuguese superstar, who turned 41 today, Thursday, February 5, 2026, posted images of himself working out on social media accompanied by blue and yellow heart emojis representing the club’s colours. However, his return for Friday’s crucial match against Al-Ittihad remains unconfirmed despite training participation.
Ronaldo was absent from Monday’s 1-0 victory over Al-Riyadh due to concerns over financial backing Al-Nassr receives from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which also owns rival clubs Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad. The forward believes Al-Nassr is losing competitive strength compared to Al-Hilal, currently league leaders by one point. The controversy intensified following Karim Benzema’s transfer from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal during the January window, while Al-Nassr signed only 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Hayder Abdulkareem. Ronaldo reportedly attempted to block Benzema’s move, fearing deliberate strengthening of a title rival.
Senior Saudi Arabian officials are urging Ronaldo to end his strike and resume playing. Al-Hilal CEO Esteve Calzado stated that Benzema’s signing was funded independently by Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, not by the PIF, emphasizing that Al-Nassr could similarly pursue private investment.
Ronaldo, who earns approximately 480,000 pounds daily, has a contract extension running until June 2027 with a 50 million euro release clause. He has scored 18 goals in 22 matches this season for Al-Nassr but remains without major silverware since arriving in Saudi Arabia in December 2022.
Portugal national team coach Roberto Martinez praised Ronaldo’s commitment, noting his maximum level of demand allows him to remain a key figure despite his age.
