Ex-Liverpool Midfielder Blames Cristiano Ronaldo for ‘Self-Indulgent Nonsense’ After Controversial Al-Nassr Row

Al-Nassr legend Cristiano Ronaldo has recently made the headlines after going on strike in protest against a lack of investment for his team. And, a former Liverpool midfielder has hit out at the five-time Ballon d’Or winner for his recent act of defiance.

Cristiano Ronaldo Blasted for Going on Strike at Al-Nassr

Earlier this Monday, Feb. 2, the Real Madrid and Manchester United legend chose to act out against the Public Investment Fund (PIF), owners of Al-Nassr. He made himself unavailable for his side’s recent 1-0 Saudi Pro League away win at Al-Riyadh.

The 40-year-old is allegedly disgruntled that Al-Nassr were not backed by PIF in the winter transfer window as he is aiming to lift his first Saudi Pro League title this season. Moreover, his discontentment has also stemmed from Karim Benzema departing Al-Ittihad to move to Al-Hilal, who are leading the table by one point, on the deadline day.

During a recent interaction on talkSPORT, former Liverpool ace Danny Murphy criticized the Al-Nassr captain for refusing to play for his club amid dispute with PIF.

“Maybe, he could give some of his earnings to the club to then help them get more players. I’ve never heard of something so ridiculous in all my life, self-indulgent nonsense,” Murphy, who registered 44 goals and 40 assists in 249 total games for Liverpool, said.

Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr on a Bosman move in January 2023 after having his contract terminated at the Red Devils, is earning $666,280 per day at his current team. His contract at the Saudi Pro League outfit is set run out in June next year.

Meanwhile, reliable journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that the former Juventus attacker is likely to be punished for his decision to not play against Al-Riyadh on Monday.

READ MORE: Ex-Real Madrid Player Insists Cristiano Ronaldo Is Not ‘Number 1’

“Ronaldo’s point, and Al Nassr fans have been protesting as well, is why Al-Hilal were given so much money to spend (by PIF) before the Club World Cup when Al-Nassr’s portion of the pie was a little bit smaller,” Jacobs, talkSPORT’s Saudi Correspondent, said.

Jacobs concluded, “What’s interesting is, whether it’s Benzema specific or whether there is a broader disagreement over strategy and ultimately funding, Ronaldo hasn’t been backed. He’s expected to be fined and punished for not making himself available for selection.”

The Portugal great has been in good form this season, finding the back of the net 18 times and providing three assists in 22 games across competitions for Al-Nassr.