Ronaldo’s future uncertain as Al Nassr hit by $213M debt and transfer ban

This massive debt mainly stems from ineffective financial decisions made during the previous season, Al-Riyadiah reported.

The crisis has placed Al Nassr under strict supervision from the Saudi Pro League. To prevent the debt from going further, the PIF has implemented emergency measures, restricting the decision-making power of the management board.

As a result, Al Nassr are currently not allowed to sign new players. The ban will remain in effect until the club can prove they have the necessary funds from sponsorship deals or other revenue streams.

According to GoalPIF’s restructuring plan is based on three main points. Firstly, the current management’s financial authority is heavily restricted to prevent further unnecessary spending.

Secondly, the fund plans to appoint independent financial, commercial and legal advisers. These experts will be tasked with finding solutions to increase revenue, reduce expenses and develop a long-term roadmap for restoring financial sustainability.

Thirdly, the PIF is considering changes to the club’s ownership structure. The fund is reviewing two serious offers from potential investors, strongly preferring the sale of a minority stake.

Sources indicate that the goal of these measures is to “preserve the club’s financial, fan-related and marketing-related value, prevent the debt from doubling and strengthen compliance with the applicable governance rules”.

These regulations apply not only domestically but are also subject to strict oversight by FIFA and other international football organizations for all clubs owned by the PIF.

To ensure fairness among all teams under the same owner, the fund must allocate financial support equitably and cannot directly interfere in professional decisions.

The future of Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo cries after Portugal’s defeat against Spain in the Round of 16 of the World Cup at the Dallas Stadium in Texas, USA, on July 6, 2026. Photo by AP

This financial crisis has cast doubt on Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the team. The Portuguese superstar has been instrumental in elevating the global image of the Saudi Pro League and significantly increasing Al Nassr’s commercial value since joining the club in late 2022.

However, Ronaldo’s salary and benefits have made his project the most expensive investment in the club’s history. In 2025, he reportedly signed a contract extension worth $676 million over just two years, not including other material benefits.

With Al Nassr burdened by this debt and unable to make new transfers, the club’s management will have to consider the options between continuing to fund Ronaldo’s contract or reallocating those resources toward rebuilding the squad and improving their finances.

Founded in 1955 and based in Riyadh, Al Nassr are a powerhouse in the Saudi Pro League. The club are one of only three teams that have never been relegated since the league’s inception.

They have won 11 national championships, with their most recent title coming last season. The team attracted massive global attention after signing Ronaldo, which started a wave of European stars moving to Saudi Arabia.