Cristiano Ronaldo made a dramatic return to Al-Nassr on Saturday, ending his three-game absence with a goal-scoring performance in a 2-0 Saudi Pro League victory over Al-Fateh. The 41-year-old captained the side and netted after 18 minutes, reigniting his association with the club after months of reported tension.

His comeback coincides with Al-Nassr’s ongoing struggles, as the team has only won the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup since his December 2022 arrival. The move, which made him the highest-paid player in football history with a £177m annual salary, has been overshadowed by speculation about his long-term commitment.