Ronaldo marks Al Nassr return with goal after brief protest

• Cristiano Ronaldo returned to Al Nassr’s starting lineup after missing two league matches and scored within 18 minutes
• The 2-0 win over Al Fateh lifted Al Nassr to second in the Saudi Pro League, one point behind leaders Al Hilal
• Sources say Ronaldo’s return followed assurances over unpaid salaries and restored management autonomy

Cristiano Ronaldo made an immediate impact on his return to action for Al Nassr, scoring inside 18 minutes as his side claimed a 2-0 victory away to Al Fateh in the Saudi Pro League on Saturday.

The 39-year-old was restored to the starting lineup after sitting out the club’s previous two league fixtures, captaining a forward line that included João Félix, Sadio Mané and Kingsley Coman. His early strike set the tone for a controlled display, with Ayman Yahya adding a late second to secure the points.

The win moves Al Nassr up to second in the table, one point behind leaders Al Hilal, and keeps them firmly in the title race. Ronaldo’s goal was his 18th of the league campaign, leaving him level with Julián Quiñones in the Golden Boot standings and two behind Ivan Toney.

ESPN previously reported that Ronaldo had refused to play earlier this month in protest at a lack of financial backing during the transfer window. He was said to be frustrated that the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund did not invest sufficiently in the squad, particularly when rivals Al Hilal strengthened with the addition of Karim Benzema.

Sources indicated that Ronaldo agreed to return after his principal concerns were addressed, including the settlement of overdue player salaries and the restoration of decision making authority to senior club executives.

Following the episode, the Saudi Pro League issued a statement underlining the financial independence of its clubs, stressing that no individual player holds influence beyond their own organisation.

Ronaldo’s swift impact on his comeback offered a timely reminder of his enduring influence, with Al Nassr now firmly back in contention at the top of the table.