After controversy, Cristiano Ronaldo declares: “I belong to Saudi Arabia” | OneFootball

After missing out on Al-Nassr for three matches due to disagreements with the management, Cristiano Ronaldo returned with full force to the Saudi team. The Portuguese star scored three goals in two games since returning to the field. The 41-year-old forward netted two goals in the 4-0 victory against Al-Hazem this Saturday and declared after the game: “I belong to Saudi Arabia.”

“I want to stay here”

Amid rumors of a possible departure from Saudi football, CR7 declared his commitment to Saudi Arabia and expressed his desire to stay with Al-Nassr. “I am very happy. As I have said before, I belong to Saudi Arabia. It is a country that has welcomed me very well, as well as my family and friends. I am happy here and I want to stay here,” he commented to Saudi TV Thmanyah.

“The most important thing is for us to keep fighting, we are at the top. We do our job, we win, we press on, and we will see at the end of the season,” he added.

Controversy

The star was involved in controversy after being away from the field for three matches. According to the Portuguese newspaper A Bola, the forward disagrees with the current management of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF), which manages clubs like Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli.

The team captain reportedly became dissatisfied with the treatment given to Al-Nassr compared to its rivals, especially regarding sports planning and the transfer market. The issue gained traction after coach Jorge Jesus demanded reinforcements for the season. CR7 has a contract with the Saudi club until June 2027.

Since arriving in Saudi football, Cristiano Ronaldo has accumulated 129 matches, with 114 goals scored and 22 assists for Al-Nassr.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.