Others have, however, been quick to condemn Ronaldo’s behaviour. Walid Al-Faraj, a prominent television host and one of the most respected voices in Saudi Arabian football, has said of a disgruntled GOAT: “Cristiano Ronaldo needs to know his place. This country is called Saudi Arabia, not Ronaldo’s Arabia. He confuses being an ambassador with being a manager.
“He’s been a disappointment. He’s an employee, he earns a millionaire’s salary – more than he’s ever earned in Europe – and he has to respect the league, or he has to leave.”
He went on to say of Ronaldo’s antics, which have attracted plenty of criticism: “Imagine a Manchester City player refusing to play in protest against the club owner’s decisions. Or an Arsenal player refusing two games because he’s unhappy with the renewal offer. It’s impossible for a player to dare do that in the Premier League.”
Ronaldo’s contract – which is the most lucrative in world football and is said to earn him close to £500,000-a-day – is due to run until 2027. A decision on his long-term future may be made after representing Portugal at this summer’s World Cup.