cristiano ronaldoAl Nasr’s future has come under fresh scrutiny after the Saudi Professional League (SPL) issued a firm statement stressing that “no player is bigger than the club or the league”, adding to the drama ahead of a crucial second game of the Asian Champions League.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Al-Nasser face Turkmenistan’s Al-Kadag on Wednesday with a quarter-final spot on the line, but focus has shifted to Ronaldo’s absence and reports of frustration with the direction of the club. The 41-year-old Portugal star has missed the team’s last two Saudi Pro League games as he claims to be unhappy with the way the club is funded, especially after rivals Al Hilal strengthened their squad with signings Karim Benzema in the latest transfer window.All four of Saudi Arabia’s biggest clubs – Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli – are majority-owned by Saudi Arabiaof the Public Investment Fund, and comparisons between their spending strategies, have heightened scrutiny of Ronaldo’s situation.In a strongly worded statement, the SPL emphasized its stance on governance and player influence. “The structure of the Saudi Professional League follows a simple principle: each club operates independently under the same rules,” the league said. “Cristiano has maintained close links with Al Nasr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club’s development and ambitions. But no individual – no matter how important – can make decisions outside their own club.”Despite Ronaldo’s absence, Al Naser defeated defending champions Al Ittihad 2-0 last week, showing resilience ahead of the continental clash.Elsewhere in Asia, Al Hilal continue to dominate the Western Conference with a perfect six-match record, while Al Ahly have already sealed a knockout spot. In the East Division, Vissel Kobe remains the only team confirmed to advance so far, while the Chinese club is at the bottom of the standings.
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