Cristiano Ronaldo’s club Al-Nassr is, according to coach Jorge Jesus, financially weaker than Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal. Jesus states Al-Nassr still targets the title despite that gap. The team recently moves back into contention, while Ronaldo misses two matches in protest over Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund support during the winter transfer window.

Al-Nassr previously endures a four-match winless spell and falls behind Al-Hilal in the standings. Jesus’ side then responds with six straight league victories, cutting the margin at the top to one point. Ronaldo returns against Al-Fateh, scores in a 2-0 win, and Jesus, who secures a domestic treble with Al-Hilal in 2024, considers the protest justified.

Jesus draws on experience from a previous spell with Al-Hilal to explain the current situation. "I’ve already been at Al-Hilal," Jorge Jesussaid.

Jesus notes Al-Hilal benefits from stronger financial backing, while Al-Nassr must challenge with more limited resources.

Jesus says Al-Hilal’s economic strength is normal in the Saudi Pro League and remembers gaining from it as a coach. Jesus explains Al-Nassr is expected to fight for top places despite lower spending. The coach highlights that the club must remain strong mentally while chasing rivals who have greater economic power rather than superior sporting quality.

Jesus believes Al-Nassr hires this coaching staff to narrow the gap with Al-Hilal in trophies and points. Jesus stresses confidence in Al-Nassr’s overall structure, mentioning gradual improvement in squad balance. That work involves both playing staff and personnel off the pitch, who understand the difficulties and continue competing for the Saudi Pro League title race.