Saudi powerhouse Al-Nassr has been hit with a transfer ban effective December 19, preventing the registration of new players indefinitely. Reports from Al Riyadhiya indicate the sanction stems from outstanding unpaid fees owed to Manchester City following Aymeric Laporte’s transfer. This development alarms the board, who intended to strengthen the squad mid-season, while rival clubs like Al Shabab currently face similar penalties.
History repeats itself, as Al-Nassr navigated a comparable FIFA ban in 2023 regarding Ahmed Musa, which was lifted upon payment. Consequently, a quick financial settlement is expected to resolve this issue.
Amidst this administrative turmoil, captain Cristiano Ronaldo remains vital. The 40-year-old has tallied 11 goals in 12 games, exerting immense influence. Contracted through 2027, he pursues his 1,000th career goal and plans to retire internationally after the 2026 World Cup. The team must now focus primarily on their December 24 AFC Champions League clash against Al Zawraa.