Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly set to lose high-profile teammate at Al Nassr next season

Al Nassr have not had a good season in the Saudi Pro League. Inconsistency and injuries hurt their chances throughout the year. As a result, the team could not reach a strong competitive level. Therefore, they failed to win the league title. Even so, Cristiano Ronaldo is having a very good season. He has scored 23 goals and is the league’s top scorer. However, the team’s poor overall form could now lead to major changes. According to reports, Al Nassr may let go of one of their top players.

According to RMC Sport, Al Nassr could release center-back Aymeric Laporte despite his contract running through 2026. The report adds that Laporte is already in talks with French club Olympique Marseille. His departure might be surprising for some, but his performances have not lived up to expectations. Fans criticized him on several occasions, and his form has raised concerns within the club.

Laporte joined Al Nassr in August 2023 for $31 million after leaving Manchester City. Since then, he has played 69 matches, scoring nine goals and providing one assist. However, he has failed to win a single title with the Saudi club. This stands in contrast to his success with Athletic Club and Manchester City. If he leaves, Al Nassr could reinforce their defense by targeting a younger player with long-term potential.

Aymeric Laporte wants to return to European soccer and is targeting a club that plays in the UEFA Champions League, as per Sacha Tavolieri. This move could help him regain the prominence he once had, as he was previously seen as one of the best central defenders in the world.

Aymeric Laporte of Al-Nassr looks on as he lines up prior to the Riyadh Season Cup Final match between Al Hilal and Al-Nassr at Kingdom Arena on February 08, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Also, he could strengthen his chances of continuing to be called up to the Spanish national team, since younger defenders are starting to challenge his spot. Therefore, Laporte views this return as a crucial step to revive his career and maintain his international relevance.

see also

‘Cristiano is like Michael Jordan,’ claims Real Madrid star who faced Ronaldo’s Portugal

Could Cristiano Ronaldo also leave Al Nassr at the end of the season?

Since Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Al Nassr, the club has failed to win any major titles. This has raised questions about his legacy in Arab soccer. Still, the Portuguese star has been the team’s best player since day one. He is currently the league’s top scorer. However, Al Nassr do not have a sporting project that matches those of teams like Al Ittihad or Al Hilal. Those clubs have deeper and more balanced squads.

Because of this situation, fans have pointed out that Ronaldo’s contract ends on June 30, 2025. His renewal has not been confirmed yet. Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror reports that he feels unhappy with the team’s results.

For that reason, the Portuguese could decide to leave. This possibility is still open. However, nothing has been officially announced. At the same time, Al Nassr’s recent 9-0 win showed the team can perform well without their Portuguese star raising doubts on his continuity.