Al Nassr claimed a much needed 3-2 win over Al Shabab during Round 16 of the Roshn Saudi League, climbing to second place in the league standings with 34 points.
The match started strongly for Al Nassr as Portuguese star João Félix opened the scoring in the 2nd minute, followed by a stunning bicycle kick goal from French star Kingsley Coman in the 8th minute.
In the second half, Abdulrahman Ghareeb secured the win with a decisive goal in the 76th minute. Next up, Al Nassr will face Damac FC on January 21st in Abha, as part of Round 17 of the Saudi Roshn League. Cristiano and the rest of the team hope to advance in the tournament.
Ronaldo could soon be joined by a Portuguese teammate
Cristiano Ronaldo could soon be joined by another familiar face from Portugal if Al Nassr succeed in their reported pursuit of Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes. As the Saudi Pro League side looks to respond to a recent downturn in form, adding an elite playmaker has emerged as a priority ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Al Nassr opened the 2025-26 campaign strongly but have since hit a rough stretch, going four straight matches without a win. That slump has dropped Ronaldo‘s team to second place in the league, seven points behind the leaders, increasing pressure on the club to strengthen the squad. According to CaughtOffside reporter Ekrem Konur, Al Nassr have identified Fernandes as a primary target and are prepared to make a significant financial commitment to land him.
The reported offer would see Fernandes earn around £700,000 per week, roughly $938,000, a figure that would place him among the highest-paid midfielders in world soccer. From a sporting perspective, the move would give head coach Jorge Jesus a high-level creative presence to pair with Marcelo Brozovic in central midfield, potentially reshaping Al Nassr‘s balance and control in matches.
Another team could be in the hunt
Fernandes has been Manchester United‘s most influential player for several seasons, but his future at Old Trafford appears increasingly uncertain. Reports suggest tensions have grown between the midfielder and the club, particularly following a rumored transfer attempt that Fernandes acknowledged had affected him emotionally. At 31, and with United continuing to struggle for consistency, he is said to be open to a new challenge.
Al Nassr are not alone in their interest. Al Hilal, one of their main domestic rivals, are also reportedly monitoring Fernandes as a potential replacement should Ruben Neves depart. Bayern Munich have likewise been linked to the Portugal international, creating a competitive market that could complicate Al Nassr‘s pursuit. Still, Fernandes has previously indicated openness to a move to the Saudi Pro League, making the financial package a potentially decisive factor.
Since arriving at Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon for 65 million, Fernandes has built a reputation as one of the Premier League‘s most complete midfielders. He made an immediate impact as an attacking force, scoring 18 goals and registering 11 assists in his second league season. Over time, his role has evolved, with greater emphasis on dictating play and contributing defensively alongside Casemiro.
