Benzema Al Hilal transfer linked to Ronaldo The Saudi Pro League (SPL) witnessed dramatic developments on the final day of the mid-season transfer window, as Karim Benzema completed a surprise move from Al-Ittihad to Al Hilal. Just hours later, Cristiano Ronaldo was notably missing from Al-Nassr’s matchday squad against Al Riyadh.
The timing of these two events has sparked widespread discussion among fans and media outlets, raising questions about whether the two situations are connected. With both players being global icons and former Real Madrid teammates, the developments have added tension to an already competitive title race.
This article explains what happened, why Benzema moved, and how Ronaldo’s reaction fits into the broader picture of Saudi football’s growing ambitions.
What Happened on Saudi Pro League Deadline Day?
On the final day of the transfer window:
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Karim Benzema officially transferred from Al-Ittihad to Al Hilal
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Cristiano Ronaldo was excluded from Al-Nassr’s match squad
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Reports emerged suggesting Ronaldo was dissatisfied with Al-Nassr’s lack of transfer activity
These developments came as Al Hilal and Al Nassr sit at the top of the SPL table, separated by only one point.
Why Did Benzema Leave Al-Ittihad for Al Hilal?
Benzema’s move is viewed as a strategic and ambitious decision. Although he won the Saudi Pro League title with Al-Ittihad last season, the 38-year-old striker chose to join the most decorated club in Saudi football history.
Key reasons behind the transfer:
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Al Hilal’s dominance:
The club has won 21 domestic league titles and four AFC Champions League trophies. -
Strong coaching leadership:
The team is coached by Simone Inzaghi, a two-time UEFA Champions League finalist. -
International success:
Al Hilal recently stunned Manchester City 4–3 in the FIFA Club World Cup, showcasing their global competitiveness.
Benzema’s arrival was celebrated widely on social media, with Al Hilal presenting him as a major addition to their title push.
Why Was Ronaldo Missing from Al-Nassr’s Match?
Cristiano Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr’s squad against Al Riyadh, despite no injury or suspension concerns.
According to multiple reports:
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Ronaldo is unhappy that Al-Nassr failed to sign major reinforcements before the transfer window closed.
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Portuguese outlet A Bola reported that the forward felt the club had not matched Al Hilal’s ambition.
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Al-Nassr currently sit second in the table and are in a tight race for the league title.
Ronaldo has scored 17 goals this season and remains the team’s leading attacker.
How Is Benzema’s Transfer Linked to Ronaldo?
The connection lies in competition and timing.
Benzema’s move strengthens Al Hilal, Al-Nassr’s main title rival. For Ronaldo, who has yet to win a league championship in Saudi Arabia, the signing of his former Real Madrid teammate represents a serious obstacle to his ambitions.
Since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023, Ronaldo has recorded remarkable numbers:
| Player | Club | League Goals | Matches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cristiano Ronaldo | Al-Nassr | 91 | 95 |
| Karim Benzema (last SPL season) | Al-Ittihad | 21 | 29 |
Despite Ronaldo’s personal success, team silverware has remained elusive.
Benzema, meanwhile, helped Al-Ittihad win both the league and the King’s Cup last season, making his switch to Al Hilal even more significant.
Official Response from Al-Nassr
Al-Nassr CEO Jose Semedo declined to publicly comment on Ronaldo’s absence.
However, reports from ESPN and CBS Sports suggest:
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Ronaldo is not injured or sidelined by the coach
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He does not intend to leave Al-Nassr
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He recently signed a two-year contract extension in June 2025
Senior club officials reportedly understand his frustration with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which oversees multiple SPL clubs, including Al Hilal and Al-Nassr.
Can Al-Nassr Sign More Players?
The Saudi Pro League transfer window officially closed on Monday night. This means:
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Al-Nassr cannot sign new players until the next registration period
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Any further squad strengthening will have to wait until the end of the season
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Ronaldo must rely on the existing team for the remainder of the title race
What This Means for the Saudi Pro League
These events highlight the rising intensity of competition within the SPL. High-profile signings, global attention, and tight league standings show how Saudi football is rapidly evolving into a major international league.
Benzema’s arrival at Al Hilal and Ronaldo’s reaction reflect the pressure on clubs to match ambition with action. With only one point separating the top two teams, the remainder of the season promises a fierce and closely watched battle.
Conclusion
Karim Benzema’s transfer to Al Hilal has reshaped the Saudi Pro League title race and indirectly placed Cristiano Ronaldo under renewed spotlight. While Ronaldo remains committed to Al-Nassr, his absence from the squad on deadline day reveals growing frustration with his club’s transfer strategy.
As Saudi football continues to attract global stars, these moments underline how personal rivalries and team ambitions now play out on a much larger stage. The coming weeks will determine whether Al-Nassr can keep pace with a strengthened Al Hilal side led by Benzema.