Ronaldo's-Al-Nassr-Dream-Turns-Sour-Fans-Demand-DepartureRonaldo's Al-Nassr Dream Turns Sour: Fans Demand Departure

 

The continental dream has become a nightmare for Al-Nassr and their huge fan base, with the focus squarely on their talisman, Cristiano Ronaldo. After a bruising 3-2 defeat at home to Japan's Kawasaki Frontale in the AFC Champions League semi-final on April 30, 2025, a tide of rage and frustration has swept in, with many fans demanding the 40-year-old superstar's exit.

 

Ronaldo's Frustrating Failure to Deliver Big Titles

 

With Ronaldo's remarkable personal tally of 97 goals from 108 matches for the Saudi Arabian club, the team as a whole has struggled to claim big silverware since his joining in December 2022.

Apart from their recent defeat in the King's Cup and their current third position in the Saudi Pro League, the team has also not qualified for the Champions League.  The 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup is the only major championship in Ronaldo's career.

The anger boiled over following the Kawasaki Frontale defeat, with Ronaldo himself showing bizarre post-match antics. He was spotted by himself on the pitch, waving his arms wildly and apparently arguing with himself, a scene that immediately went viral and further enraged the already frustrated fanbase.

 

Accusations of Self-Interest and Questionable ROI for Al-Nassr

 

Social media was awash with criticism, with fans accusing him of prioritizing individual glory over team success. Others have referred to his previous departures from Manchester United and Juventus when he had also failed to provide Champions League success, pointing out a pattern of putting individual honors first. 

Although there remain some ardent fans defending him as a "legend," most of the fanbase now seems to be changing its minds toward demanding a change. Al-Nassr's poor performance in key games and inability to win major honors have led some to believe their reliance on a veteran icon is hindering their progress.

The monetary investment in Ronaldo is enormous, and with minimal concrete return in the form of major titles, doubts are being raised about the club's long-term plan.

 

Coach Slams Team, Fans Want Ronaldo Out

 

After the loss, head coach Stefano Pioli was not afraid to speak out about the disapproval he had of the team's performance.  Ronaldo's contract has been said to expire in 2026, but the increasing discontent from Al-Nassr fans indicates that his future with the team might not be guaranteed either.

The next few months will probably decide whether or not the Portuguese legend can regain the favor of the fans and guide Al-Nassr to the triumph they crave so much or if demands for his sacking will mount.

 

Conclusion

 

Al-Nassr's Champions League exit incited fan anger at Ronaldo's inability to deliver big silverware despite his goal prowess. With the coach publicly criticizing and fans demanding change, the expensive superstar's future at the club now hangs in the balance based on whether he can deliver long-sought success.