A storm is brewing at Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr as former Saudi Arabian Football Federation spokesman Mohammed Al-Sheikh publicly criticizes the unprecedented influence reportedly granted to Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. Al-Sheikh, a respected sports commentator and media figure in the Kingdom, has raised concerns over what he describes as “absolute authority” being handed to the 40-year-old forward, warning that such favoritism could set a dangerous precedent in Saudi football.
In a strongly-worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Al-Sheikh expressed dismay over Ronaldo’s increasing control over internal affairs at Al Nassr, suggesting that it crosses the professional boundaries expected of a player, no matter how legendary.
“There’s nothing wrong with Al-Nassr capitalizing on the presence of the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo to benefit from his experience,” Al-Sheikh wrote. “But no player should be given absolute authority to overstep their role within the club.”
Ronaldo’s Contract Extension Raises Eyebrows
Cristiano Ronaldo recently committed his future to Al Nassr by signing a fresh two-year contract extension that will keep him at the Saudi capital-based club until the summer of 2027. The deal, finalized earlier this summer, reportedly includes jaw-dropping financial terms — with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner set to earn a staggering €200 million annually.
But it’s not just the money that’s making headlines. What has sparked intense debate in Saudi football circles is the inclusion of clauses that allegedly allow Ronaldo to influence key club decisions, including managerial appointments, player transfers, and even executive hirings.
This level of influence is highly unusual — even in modern football, where star power often carries weight. Critics like Al-Sheikh fear it could destabilize the structure and credibility of professional football in the Kingdom.
Managerial Shake-Up Attributed to Ronaldo
One of the most talked-about recent events at Al Nassr has been the managerial reshuffle. Stefano Pioli, the Italian manager who was previously linked with taking over the team, was suddenly dropped from the shortlist. In his place, former Flamengo and Benfica manager Jorge Jesus was hired.
Insiders close to the club suggest that Ronaldo personally lobbied for Jesus’s appointment. The two share a history of mutual respect, and Jesus has publicly acknowledged that Ronaldo reached out to him prior to his hiring.
This revelation has only added to the perception that Ronaldo now operates as both player and de facto sporting director at the club.
“Cristiano is one of the greatest footballers of all time. If he sees something that can help the team, I listen,” Jesus reportedly said after his appointment. “But I am the manager, and I will make decisions in the best interest of Al Nassr.”
CEO Appointment Adds Fuel to the Fire
The controversy didn’t stop there. In a move that stunned local media and fans alike, Al Nassr also replaced its CEO, Majed Jamaan Al-Sorour, with Jose Semedo — a long-time friend and confidante of Ronaldo from their early days in football.
Semedo’s appointment has sparked fresh outrage, with Al-Sorour now reportedly threatening to take legal action against the club over what he describes as an unfair dismissal. While the club has remained tight-lipped about the behind-the-scenes politics, sources suggest that Ronaldo’s influence played a key role in the reshuffle.
For Al-Sheikh, these developments are more than just signs of Ronaldo’s star power — they represent a potential erosion of governance and meritocracy in Saudi football.
“Clubs must be bigger than any player, no matter their fame,” he stated. “Decisions must be made by boards and professionals, not by players and their friends.”
Divided Reactions Across Saudi Football
Ronaldo’s arrival in the Saudi Pro League in December 2022 was initially hailed as a turning point for the region’s football ambitions. His signing, believed to be worth over €500 million over the initial two-and-a-half-year term, catapulted Al Nassr into global headlines and inspired a wave of big-name signings across rival Saudi clubs.
Since then, the SPL has seen an influx of stars like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Riyad Mahrez, and Roberto Firmino — all reportedly encouraged by the league’s vision and Ronaldo’s trailblazing move. The Kingdom has also launched a major campaign to position itself as a global football destination, including plans to host major tournaments and invest in grassroots development.
Yet, critics now worry that allowing Ronaldo — or any single player — unchecked control could harm the integrity of these broader efforts.
“Ronaldo has done wonders for Saudi football in terms of global visibility,” said Riyadh-based sports analyst Abdulaziz Al-Mutairi. “But he must remain within the bounds of a player. Once you allow stars to run clubs, it’s no longer football — it becomes a celebrity enterprise.”
Ronaldo’s Legacy and What Lies Ahead
There is no doubt that Ronaldo remains a formidable force on the pitch. In his debut season with Al Nassr, he netted 20 goals in 24 league appearances and helped the team win the Arab Club Champions Cup. His work ethic, discipline, and winning mentality have also rubbed off on younger players in the squad.
But even some fans have begun to question whether his role off the field is overshadowing his contributions on it.
“I love Ronaldo, but Al Nassr is not just his club. It’s for the fans, the city, and Saudi football,” wrote one supporter on social media.
As the 2024/25 SPL season draws closer, all eyes will be on how Ronaldo navigates his expanded role — and whether head coach Jorge Jesus can maintain authority over a dressing room led by one of the game’s most iconic figures.
What’s clear is that Mohammed Al-Sheikh’s comments have reignited an important debate about the balance between star power and professionalism in football governance. For Al Nassr, and for Saudi football at large, the next few months could be crucial in setting the tone for the league’s long-term credibility.
By Africa Live News Sports Desk
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