Cristiano Ronaldo criticised over 'strange' Al-Nassr strike that could jeopardise 1,000-goal chase | OneFootball

Cristiano Ronaldo’s supposed strike at Al-Nassr has been labelled “strange”, with the forward, who turns 41 on 5 February, reported to have refused to play, a scenario that could jeopardise his 1,000-goal chase.

“Cristiano Ronaldo’s strike at Al-Nassr is strange to me, it would be easier for him to get to 1,000 career goals in Saudi Pro League than the Premier League,” said Stefan Schwarz, speaking to BoyleSports.

Ronaldo has given no indication that retirement is imminent and is under contract in Riyadh until summer 2027, the most lucrative deal in world football.

He sat out the recent meeting with Al-Riyadh. Without him, Sadio Mane scored the only goal in a 1-0 win and Jorge Jesus did not fulfil post-match media duties.

Reports in Portugal say the protest centres on perceived lack of Public Investment Fund support for Al-Nassr compared with Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli. Ronaldo opposed Karim Benzema’s move from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal, viewing it as harmful to fair competition. The club have made no official comment, players and staff were instructed to avoid media, and it remains to be seen if he features against Al-Hilal on Friday.

Source: Goal.com