Saudi pundit Walid Al-Faraj has recently criticized Al-Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo for his ongoing protest against the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). Al-Faraj took a direct shot at Ronaldo, mentioning his visit to former US President Donald Trump last year as he condemned the Portugal international’s actions.
According to A Bola, Al-Faraj stated that Ronaldo seems to have overestimated his importance and position in the Saudi Pro League. The pundit emphasized that Saudi Arabia pays Ronaldo better and has elevated his status more than Europe ever did, urging him to either adjust his attitude or leave the league.
Al-Faraj went on to say, “Cristiano Ronaldo needs to know his place. This country is called Saudi Arabia, not Ronaldo’s Arabia. He confuses being an ambassador with being a manager. He’s been a disappointment. He’s an employee, he earns a millionaire’s salary – more than he’s ever earned in Europe – and he has to respect the league, or he has to leave.” He highlighted that such behavior would not be tolerated in top European leagues like the Premier League.
The pundit also mentioned Ronaldo’s visit to the White House, claiming that without his association with Saudi Arabia, the football star would never have had the opportunity to meet with Trump. This statement adds weight to the argument that Ronaldo should show more respect and gratitude towards the league and its stakeholders.
Ronaldo’s recent strike against the PIF has garnered significant attention, with the player missing the last two games for Al-Nassr. Reports suggest that Ronaldo has outlined his conditions for returning to action while considering his future with the club. Despite signing a two-year deal last summer, Ronaldo is reportedly willing to leave for £43 million if his demands are not met.
In the midst of his protest, Ronaldo has slipped behind Julian Quinones and Ivan Toney in the race for the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot for the 2025-26 season. Quinones and Toney have been in fine goalscoring form, with Ronaldo’s absence from the pitch impacting his chances of retaining the Golden Boot title.
Ronaldo’s goalscoring prowess has been evident in his previous seasons with Al-Nassr, but his current standoff with the club’s ownership has hindered his performance on the field. It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether Ronaldo will reconcile with the PIF or seek a move away from the Saudi league.
In conclusion, the criticism from Walid Al-Faraj sheds light on the complexities of player-owner relationships in modern football, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and professionalism in the sport. Cristiano Ronaldo’s actions and decisions in the coming weeks will undoubtedly shape his legacy in the Saudi Pro League and beyond.
