Star Wars: Ronaldo Defeated as Benzema Wins Transfer Fight

Karim Benzema has completed a high-profile move from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal, dealing a major blow to Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo recently boycotted Al-Nassr’s Saudi Pro League match against Al-Riyadh in protest over the club’s limited activity in the transfer market. The veteran forward is reportedly frustrated by what he sees as unequal backing for Al-Nassr compared to other clubs under the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Since Ronaldo’s arrival in the 2022/23 season, Al-Hilal are said to have outspent Al-Nassr by around £180 million. Despite this disparity, Al-Hilal have now been cleared to sign Benzema as they push to strengthen their title charge.
Al-Hilal currently sit top of the league table, just one point ahead of Al-Nassr, and are on course to claim a second league title in three seasons—while Ronaldo is yet to secure a major trophy in Saudi Arabia.