Alex MacQuoid
Cristiano Ronaldo has once again dominated the headlines – not just with his on-field numbers, but now with a record-breaking contract renewal at Al Nassr. The Portuguese icon, who turns 42 before the deal expires, has inked a two-year extension reportedly worth a jaw-dropping £340 million annually.
But while the financials are eye-popping, the ripple effect inside Al Nassr’s dressing room is proving to be just as explosive.
Jhon Duran’s Quickfire Exit: £65M Gone in Six Months
First on the chopping block is Jhon Duran. The former Aston Villa striker arrived amid great fanfare, commanding a £65 million fee and netting four goals in his first three outings. But his reported £320,000-a-week salary and backstage discontent have cut his Saudi journey short. According to The Telegraph, the internal “chaos” triggered by Ronaldo’s new status is central to Duran’s decision to leave – potentially reuniting with Jose Mourinho at Fenerbahce on loan.
Sadio Mane Also in Doubt
Another domino teetering on the edge is Sadio Mane. Brought in from Bayern Munich in 2023, the Senegalese star has been a strong performer with 37 goals in 97 appearances. Yet, as Jonathan Liew from The Guardian highlights, both Mane and Duran are now “overshadowed to such an extent that both may leave this summer.”
The Ronaldo Effect: A Double-Edged Sword
Ronaldo has bagged 99 goals in Al Nassr colors and topped the Saudi Pro League scoring charts for two consecutive seasons. Still, major silverware remains elusive. In a recent club interview, Ronaldo reaffirmed his hunger: “I still believe in that goal. That’s why I renewed for two more years. I believe I will be a champion in Saudi Arabia.”
His contract is more than just numbers – it includes an ambassadorial role, 16 full-time staff, and a £4 million private jet. While this cements his commitment to the SPL and the Kingdom, it also introduces a new hierarchy dynamic that seems unsettling for other stars.
As Ronaldo eyes both trophies and a legacy in Saudi Arabia, Al Nassr must balance his gravitational pull with the morale of its supporting cast. With top earners now seeking the exit door, the club faces a crucial summer of recalibration – both on the pitch and behind the scenes.