Cristiano Ronaldo has indicated that he plans to address his frustrations regarding the persistent criticism of the Saudi Pro League at the end of the season, asserting that such negativity harms the league’s reputation.
Following a recent loss to Al Nassr, several players from Al Ahli voiced their concerns that Ronaldo’s team was receiving preferential treatment from referees.
After Al Nassr’s 2-0 victory over Al Ahli, which helped keep their title hopes alive, Ronaldo commented on the criticism: “This is not good for the league. Everyone is complaining. This is football, not a war. We all want to win, but there are limits to what can be accepted.”
Ronaldo elaborated on his views and plans to provide further insight at the conclusion of the season.
“I will discuss these issues at the end of the season because there have been many troubling incidents,” he stated.
“Many players are expressing their frustrations on social media, discussing referees, the league, and our project. This isn’t beneficial. It’s not the league’s goal.”
“We ought to set an example, not just domestically but also for Europe, to show our ambition to become one of the world’s premier leagues. Instead of continuing the criticism, we should take a step back and reflect… because, to me, this isn’t football.”
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Ronaldo, who is 41, intends to shed light on his reasons for boycotting two Saudi Pro League matches earlier this year.
His protest followed the winter transfer acquisition of former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema by rivals Al Hilal.
“It’s been a challenging season, both on and off the field,” Ronaldo acknowledged on Wednesday. “We recognize the strength of other teams, but I will have the opportunity to speak about it after the season concludes.”
Despite his grievances, Ronaldo is eager to help Al Nassr claim their first title since 2019, marking his first since joining the club in December 2022.
“The battle for the league title will continue to the end,” emphasized the Portugal captain. “Every match is tough, and we knew we were facing a very strong opponent.”
Ronaldo has attracted unprecedented attention to the league. During a post-match interview, he watched a video of a young admirer celebrating and discussed his legacy.
“It’s an honor for me, which is why I keep playing—not just for the current generation but for those before and after,” he remarked. “I strive to enjoy each day, each match, and each year because the end of my career is undeniably near.”
“My career has been extraordinary and continues to unfold. What matters most is to persist. I enjoy scoring goals and, above all, winning. We genuinely aspire to win the league.”
Even Al Ahli defender and former Juventus teammate Merih Demiral remarked to Ronaldo after Wednesday’s match that Al Ahli has won two Asian Champions League titles, but it didn’t dampen Ronaldo’s spirits, who replied, “I have five Champions League titles! Five!”
Al Nassr still has four league matches remaining and is currently eight points ahead of Al Hilal, who has a game in hand.
Ronaldo now boasts 970 career goals following his score in Wednesday’s match.