The Saudi Pro League (SPL) has rejected claims that Cristiano Ronaldo has any say in league-wide decisions, insisting that governance, recruitment, and strategic choices remain strictly within the control of individual clubs.

The league’s response follows renewed speculation about Ronaldo’s future at Al-Nassr after the Portuguese forward was left out of the squad for Monday’s league fixture against Al-Riyadh. Media reports in Portugal suggested the veteran striker was unhappy with the club’s management and declined to feature in the match, a claim that has fueled uncertainty ahead of Al-Nassr’s upcoming clash with Al-Ittihad on Friday.

While Ronaldo later posted an image of himself in training, questions persist over his availability and long-term commitment to the Riyadh-based club.

Both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal are supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has been instrumental in transforming the SPL into a global destination for elite footballers. However, league officials have dismissed suggestions that star players can influence transfers or decisions beyond their own teams.

“The Saudi Pro League operates on a clear structure where each club functions independently under the same regulations,” an SPL spokesperson told BBC Sport. “Clubs have their own leadership and football management. Recruitment, spending, and strategic decisions are made at club level, within a financial framework designed to promote sustainability and competitive balance.”

The spokesperson acknowledged Ronaldo’s impact since joining Al-Nassr in late 2022, noting his role in raising the club’s profile and competitiveness. However, the league stressed that influence has its limits.

“Cristiano Ronaldo has been fully committed to Al-Nassr and has contributed significantly to the club’s ambition. Like any top-level professional, he wants to win. But no player, regardless of stature, dictates decisions beyond their own club,” the spokesperson said.

Ronaldo signed for Al-Nassr after leaving Manchester United midway through the 2021–2022 season, on a contract reportedly worth £177 million per year, making him the highest-paid footballer in the world.