Imagine a LaLiga weekend where Lamine, Mbappé, or Julián Álvarez refuse to play.
Nearly impossible, right? Something very similar unfolded in the Saudi Pro League last week. First, Karim Benzema, then Cristiano Ronaldo, refused to take the field for their respective teams, sparking a crisis in a league that has seen seismic changes in just seven days. At least Benzema has now joined Al Hilal, leaving his stint at Al Ittihad behind.
A clash of power and money
Both former Real Madrid stars made bold moves, but for different reasons. Benzema bet on the strength of Al Hilal, while Ronaldo raised his voice against what he sees as favoritism by the Saudi Public Investment Fund toward Al Hilal, owned by Prince Al Waleed, one of the world’s richest men. Al Waleed’s backing has made the Riyadh club a financial powerhouse, fueling tensions across the league.
Whether driven by money or a display of power, both stars are stepping into a conflict that goes beyond the sport itself. The interference of politics in distributing funds and signings - especially among clubs financed by the PIF - has raised questions about whether Saudi football is becoming a privately controlled playground.
Real Madrid icons choose their own path
Each player, in his own way, pushed back against these decisions, asserting their right to choose where to play - or at least attempt to. Ronaldo’s protest, in particular, has support from Al Nassr’s management, who are frustrated with the advantages Al Hilal has received. CR7 expected more from his club and was unhappy with the rival team strengthening its squad with Benzema. Reports even suggest that Al Nassr might be behind the striker’s public stance.
Benzema’s move: contract clash sparks transfer
The first conflict began when league officials failed to offer Benzema a contract matching his contributions to the reigning league and cup champions - a slight the French forward considered insulting. Seeking a solution, Benzema found it at Al Hilal, securing a year-and-a-half contract. Moves like this would seem unthinkable in most Western leagues, but in Saudi Arabia, such shifts are possible.
Ronaldo challenges the Saudi system
Ronaldo’s situation is more complicated, amounting to a direct challenge to the league’s system, which closely monitors all clubs and has a history of favoritism. Some teams are now drawing a line, refusing to accept the unequal treatment that benefits Al Hilal. Ronaldo’s stand isn’t just about personal ambition - it’s a protest against a league where power and money often overshadow the sport itself.