Ronaldo’s Saudi Trophy Drought Explained
Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact at Al-Nassr continues to spark debate, with Dwight Yorke weighing in on why the Portuguese icon has yet to lift a major trophy in Saudi Arabia.
The former Manchester United striker believes Ronaldo’s remarkable goal-scoring record—101 goals in 114 appearances since January 2023—is no longer enough to carry his side to silverware.
Yorke stressed that Al-Nassr’s struggles stem from a lack of support around the 40-year-old forward, particularly when facing league rivals Al-Hilal.
Speaking to Jackpot City Casino, Yorke highlighted that Cristiano Ronaldo’s personal brilliance contrasts with the team’s shortcomings.
“Cristiano Ronaldo still scores plenty of goals, but unlike the past, they aren’t enough to secure major trophies. His team-mates aren’t contributing at the same level, and that’s why Al-Hilal remain dominant,” Yorke said.
Despite playing alongside established stars such as Sadio Mané, Ronaldo has seen Al-Nassr finish second twice and third once in the Saudi Pro League, while also losing both the 2024 King Cup final and 2025 Saudi Super Cup final on penalties.
Yorke acknowledged that Ronaldo’s hunger for silverware remains undiminished, even as the years pass.
“Wherever he’s been, Cristiano Ronaldo has always won. He won’t want to leave Saudi Arabia without lifting a major trophy. They’ve come close but fallen short every time against Al-Hilal,” Yorke added.
The Portuguese forward recently signed a two-year contract extension, giving him until 2027 to break his Saudi trophy drought.
Ronaldo’s appetite for goals remains insatiable. He opened the 2025-26 season in style, scoring in Al-Nassr’s 5-0 win over Al-Taawoun. His next chance to inspire his side comes on September 14 against Al-Kholood.
With over a century of goals already to his name, Ronaldo is chasing not only silverware but also Saudi football’s all-time scoring records—yet the question lingers: will his goals finally be enough to bring Al-Nassr glory?