Al Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo could be handed a two-match ban in Saudi Arabia.
After rumours suggested Cristiano Ronaldo was being investigated for his response to fans directing “Lionel Messi” chants towards him, a new report has claimed to know the extent of the possible punishment he could receive.
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The 39-year-old Al Nassr forward caused a stir this past weekend when he seemingly hit back at Al Shabab supporters who were shouting Messi’s name in his direction during a Saudi Pro League match.
While his reaction was not captured on the live broadcast of the game, footage – in which he appeared to aim an X-rated gesture at the home crowd – from those in attendance circulated on social media.
Later, it was rumoured that the Saudi Arabian Football Federation would investigate the matter further and decide whether or not his actions warrant punishment.
A new report from Saudi-based outlet Arriyadiyah states that the league’s disciplinary committee is considering imposing a two-match ban on the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, along with a fine, for “unsportsmanlike behaviour”.
Since his free-agent switch to the Middle East in January last year, Ronaldo’s popularity has helped boost the profile of the Saudi Pro League dramatically, although he has been somewhat of a divisive figure in the country.
The Portugal international has often found himself targeted by stadium-goers with jeers and “Messi” chants, to many of which he has responded in one way or another.
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While he has at times been criticised for that, Ronaldo continues to be a threat in front of goal for Al Nassr, for whom he has netted on 42 occasions in just 48 appearances across all competitions.
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