Al Nassr latest as financial strain persists, نواف العقيدي twist and European push for rising talent | OneFootball

Al Nassr are grappling with an ongoing financial crisis that is hampering recruitment for 2026-27, amid debate around Cristiano Ronaldo, a twist involving Nawaf Al Aqidi and background to Jhon Durán’s exit.

According to Goal.com, signs inside the camp are far from reassuring and the crisis is blocking new deals. Ange Postecoglou’s side won the Roshn Saudi League last season, ending a seven-year wait, and reached the AFC Champions League 2 final, raising doubts over whether they can retain their crown or challenge Asia’s elite.

Club reporter Abdulaziz Al-Asaimi has announced his retirement after repeated pleas for intervention to resolve the finances, insisting there are attempts to dismantle the club. There had also been talk of a Cristiano Ronaldo intervention.

Brazil legend Ronaldo offered a stern assessment of Cristiano Ronaldo after the 2026 World Cup, suggesting he has the level for Saudi football but may not compete at the very top of international football. The Saudi Pro League account faced fierce criticism for a Cristiano-themed image during Spain’s celebrations, then deleted the post.

Transfer talk continues, with the Samu Costa move stirring confusion. He was set to sign, then warnings emerged of a collapse driven by a financial dispute and fresh rivals entering the race.

A foreign player is close to leaving and a surprise concerning Nawaf Al Aqidi has been mooted after links to Al Ittihad and Al Shabab, with major developments expected in the coming days. European clubs are pushing to recruit 18-year-old Abdulrahman Sufyani, who features for Al Nassr’s youth sides and has recently trained with the first team under Postecoglou, but the club have rejected the advances.

Source: Goal.com