Jorge Jesus Links His Al-Nassr Future to Cristiano Ronaldo Amid Contract Uncertainty
Jorge Jesus has reportedly informed Al-Nassr’s board that his future at the club depends on whether Cristiano Ronaldo remains in Saudi Arabia, with the Portuguese coach said to be unwilling to commit to a new deal if his compatriot departs.
Ronaldo’s situation has become a major talking point in recent weeks, with the 41-year-old forward reportedly weighing up his options amid growing frustration. His contract includes a summer exit clause, and speculation has linked him with a possible return to Europe — including a move back to Sporting CP — as well as a potential switch to MLS, where a reunion with Lionel Messi has been widely discussed.
Jesus delaying contract talks
According to reports, Ronaldo’s uncertainty is directly affecting negotiations with Al-Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus. The club’s manager is said to have made any contract extension conditional on Ronaldo staying, with Saudi outlet Al-Riyadiyah claiming Jesus will not renew if the Portuguese captain is allowed to leave.
The same source adds that Jesus has no intention of discussing a new agreement — with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season — until there is clarity regarding Ronaldo’s future at the club.
Ronaldo absence adds to tensions
Ronaldo has missed Al-Nassr’s last two matches after reportedly voicing dissatisfaction over how the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has allocated resources between clubs under its control. Karim Benzema’s high-profile move from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal is believed to have intensified that frustration.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner had expected Al-Nassr to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window as they push for the Saudi Pro League title, but no major additions were completed.
Jesus is also said to be unhappy with the lack of reinforcements, having reportedly requested two signings at the start of January that have yet to materialise. Al-Riyadiyah suggest the current situation has made it difficult for the coach to meet his tactical objectives, reducing the likelihood of a contract renewal.
Jesus took charge of Al-Nassr ahead of the 2025-26 season and has recorded 24 victories in his first 30 matches in charge.
Ronaldo set for return
Despite the recent standoff, Ronaldo is reportedly easing his protest and is expected to return to training. Portuguese outlet A Bola reports that he is in line to feature against Al-Fateh on Saturday, though he will miss Al-Nassr’s Asian Champions League 2 fixture against Arkadag in Turkmenistan.
Ronaldo’s stance has received public support from former Real Madrid teammate Toni Kroos, who suggested the Saudi Pro League owes much of its global visibility to the Portuguese star. Kroos stated that without Ronaldo, interest in the league would significantly decline.