Reports have emerged that Cristiano Ronaldo will not feature in today’s Saudi Pro League match, despite being fully fit, marking yet another moment of tension in the career of one of football’s greatest icons.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who turns 41 on February 5, 2026, is celebrated for his longevity, elite mentality and remarkable achievements. However, his glittering career has also included several high-profile controversies, often stemming from his refusal to accept situations he believes fall short of his standards.
According to Planet Football, Ronaldo, who currently plays for Al-Nassr, is once again at the centre of attention in February 2026.
February 2026 – Al-Nassr
Ronaldo is set to miss Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Riyadh, a decision confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Despite being available for selection, the Portuguese forward was left out amid reports of dissatisfaction with the club’s direction.
Sources close to the situation claim Ronaldo is unhappy with how Al-Nassr have been supported by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, which owns a majority stake in the league’s top four clubs. He is believed to feel that Al-Nassr have not received the same level of backing as table-toppers Al-Hilal, who are reportedly close to securing the signing of Karim Benzema.
Still chasing his first league title with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo is said to be frustrated by the club’s quiet January transfer window and concerned that the title race may already be slipping away. While Al-Nassr are expected to cope without him against lower-ranked opposition, the decision is widely seen as a clear message of protest.
October 2022 – Manchester United
Ronaldo’s second spell at Manchester United ended abruptly after his relationship with manager Erik ten Hag deteriorated. The situation reached a breaking point during a Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur, when Ronaldo refused to come on as a late substitute.
Feeling disrespected, he left the bench and walked down the tunnel before the final whistle. The incident sparked heavy criticism and dominated headlines worldwide.
In a later televised interview with Piers Morgan, Ronaldo admitted he regretted his actions but insisted he felt provoked by the manager’s decision.
“I regret leaving the stadium,” he said. “But at the same time, I felt provoked. It’s not acceptable for me to be put on for three minutes. I know what I can give to a team.”
Ronaldo played just two more league matches before his contract with United was terminated by mutual consent in November 2022.
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August 2021 – Juventus
Ronaldo’s first major refusal came during the summer of 2021, when he pushed for a move away from Juventus. He asked not to be selected for the club’s opening home game of the season against Empoli, making his intention to leave clear.
Juventus went on to lose the match 1–0, and Ronaldo completed a dramatic return to Manchester United just days later. Then-manager Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that the forward no longer wished to play for the club.
Despite failing to win the Champions League in Turin, Ronaldo enjoyed a highly productive spell at Juventus, scoring 101 goals in 134 appearances and winning five trophies in three seasons.
Across different leagues and stages of his career, Ronaldo’s refusals have often reflected his relentless drive to compete at the highest level — a trait that has defined both his greatness and his controversies.
