The Cameroonian forward Vincent Abubakar has made clear his plan to leave Al Nassr while expressing support for Cristiano Ronaldo to continue with the Saudi club. He told reporters that his decision was set before Ronaldo arrived and that he spoke with the coaching staff about moving on. Ronaldo’s arrival introduced a new dynamic, prompting a rethinking of how foreign players fit into the squad as the team searched for fresh momentum.
Abubakar recalled that the move aligned with a broader roster strategy. He noted Ronaldo’s addition altered recruitment calculations, with coaches suggesting Abubakar would need to pursue opportunities elsewhere to satisfy squad rules and registration requirements. Ronaldo reportedly advised keeping the Cameroonian striker through the season, but Abubakar remained resolute in seeking other chances. The club assured him his salary would be settled through the end of the season as part of the transition plan.
In the end, the decision led to Abubakar terminating his contract so Al Nassr could register Ronaldo. This opened the door for the striker to join Besiktas in Turkey, where he continued his professional career. Ronaldo, then 37, had been without a club since the end of 2022 after leaving Manchester United. He joined Al Nassr on January 2 in a high profile deal reported to be worth around 200 million euros per year, with additional bonuses discussed for Ronaldo and his family. His league debut with the Saudi club immediately made an impact, as he scored a penalty in his first appearance.
Since Ronaldo’s arrival, some Al Nassr supporters have scrutinized the move—a reflection of the high expectations placed on a player of his stature. The spotlight has been intense as the team blends a new star into its existing framework, and as fans assess how this early acquisition could shape the club’s fortunes for the season ahead.
Beyond the club’s doors, the episode touched on former teammates and colleagues. Other players offered opinions about sharing a dressing room with Ronaldo, illustrating how legends, on field chemistry, and evolving tactical plans must coexist in modern football. As the season advances, observers will watch how Abubakar’s departure and Ronaldo’s ongoing role influence squad depth, competition for starting places, and the balance between ambition and consistency at the highest level.