The 40-year-old, the world’s highest-paid footballer on a reported £488,000-per-day contract, is said to be unhappy with how Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is managing Al-Nassr’s finances. Sources claim he believes the club is being treated less favourably compared to other PIF-owned teams in the league.

Ronaldo has scored 18 goals in 22 games across all competitions this season, but reports suggest he may miss Monday’s fixture due to the dispute.

The PIF holds a 75% stake in four Saudi Pro League clubs — Al-Ahli, Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr — and has played a key role in attracting top international players to the league. Since Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr in 2023, the likes of Karim Benzema, Kalidou Koulibaly and Riyad Mahrez have joined rival clubs on lucrative contracts.

Ronaldo reportedly feels that Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has not received the same level of reinforcements in the transfer market. During the January window, Al-Nassr signed only 21-year-old Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem, while Al-Hilal added Spanish centre-back Pablo Mari for £1.7m and forward Kader Meite for £26m. Another £26m deal for Neom star Saimon Bouabre is also reportedly close to completion.

Last month, Jesus publicly criticised the financial imbalance, stating that Al-Nassr “does not have the political power of Al-Hilal.” His comments prompted Al-Hilal to request a six- to 12-month suspension for Jesus.

In December, Ronaldo hinted at a possible return to Europe as he reiterated his ambition to reach 1,000 career goals. Speaking at an awards ceremony in Dubai, he said: “My passion is high, and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe. I always enjoy playing football, and I want to keep going. I will reach the number for sure, if no injuries.”

Ronaldo scored his 961st career goal in Al-Nassr’s 3-0 win over Al-Kholood last Friday, keeping him on track to reach the milestone.