Cristiano Ronaldo‘s time at Al Nassr has somewhat been all for naught. The Portuguese superstar has achieved historic milestones in the one-and-a-half seasons he has been in Saudi Arabia. However, the hunt for a coveted trophy like the Saudi Pro League or AFC Champions League remains as last year’s Arab Cup of Champions remains his most notable achievement. While this is no small feat, Al Hilal manager Jorge Jesus has taken a jibe at the efforts of Ronaldo, subtly downplaying the significance of the lone award that the icon has won.

The shots were fired ahead of the King Cup of Champions final between the arch-rivals. During the pre-match presser, Jesus questioned the significance of the competition. As compiled by @X99i3 on X, he said, “The Arab Championship is a refresher tournament.” The Portuguese tactician further revealed why Al Hilal lost last year’s installment to Al Nassr: “We lost the Arab Championship because we were in preparation for the season.”

Jesus’ claims indicate that his side didn’t hold winning the competition in such high regard. Rather, they were focused on the Roshn Saudi League, which was set to begin just days before the Arab Championship. Eventually, the Blue Waves’ disinterest in the tournament led them to become this season’s Saudi League champions. Interestingly, Jesus has echoed what Saudi Arabia’s Sports Minister once said about this Middle Eastern contest.

While congratulating Ronaldo and his team on their win, the diplomat called it a “friendly tournament.” Either way, this is quite a bold assertion from Jesus regarding Al Nassr’s only trophy win under the leadership of their star player. Having faced disappointment in all the domestic tournaments, the opportunity remains for Luis Castro to at least end their season with a King Cup win. Can they do it?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. face a significant challenge to avoid a trophyless season against Al Hilal

Already basking in the glory of their Roshn League win, Al Hilal has more reasons to dominate Al Nassr. Since losing out on the Arab Club Cup of Champions, Neymar’s domestic club has remained undefeated against the Yellow and Blue in their last four matches. A major upset for Al Nassr came during the Saudi Super Cup, where Al Hilal knocked them out.

Even in the latest league fixture, Al Nassr failed to clinch a victory over their rivals, managing only to scrape up a draw. Now the challenge comes in the form of a final. Castro’s side hasn’t won a single trophy this season, and losing this tournament would result in Al Nassr ending the season trophyless.

Perhaps Cristiano Ronaldo is hoping to respond to Jorge Jesus’ Arab Championship criticism with a win tonight in the King Cup of Champions. Let the drama begin!