Cristiano Ronaldo's no-show leaves Saudi Pro League facing awkward questions

A high-profile Monday in the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Hilal drawing with Al-Ahli and Al-Nassr winning as Sadio Mané scored, was eclipsed by Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from his club. Reports suggested Ronaldo was on strike, unhappy at the perceived lack of investment at Al-Nassr and considering leaving despite a reported daily pay packet of about £490,000.

The story has been tied to Karim Benzema's move to Al-Hilal after a falling-out at Al-Ittihad, and to mid-season recruitment across the big clubs, including additions such as Mohamed Meïté and Pablo Marí. Observers have speculated Ronaldo may be attempting to influence transfers involving the Public Investment Fund, which backs several of the league's leading clubs.

Former player Sami Al-Jaber warned that some world-famous foreign players now exert outsized influence over club decisions, calling it a potential crisis for the competition.

cristiano ronaldo, saudi pro league, al-nassr, al-hilal, al-ahli, sadio mané, karim benzema, al-ittihad, public investment fund, sami al-jaber