The Saudi League responded to messages from Cristiano Ronaldo, who, without directly speaking about the case, made it clear that he was doing a kind of strike against what it considers the Saudi government to favor Al Hilal. Now, through a statement sent to the BBC, the Saudi League warned that «no one, no matter how important, determines decisions other than the club itself». This is after ensuring that all clubs in the country operate independently, albeit under the same rules: which includes operating within a financial framework that has been designed to ensure the sustainability of the competition itself. “Recent transfer activity clearly demonstrates this independence. A club strengthened itself in a specific way. Another took a different approach. These were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters,” the statement said. “Cristiano has been fully involved with Al Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club's growth and ambition. Like any elite competitor, he wants to win. But no one, no matter how important it is, determines decisions other than the club itself.” Full statement: «The Saudi Pro League is structured around a simple principle: all clubs operate independently, under the same rules. Clubs have their own boards of directors, their own executives and their own football leadership. Decisions on recruitment, spending and strategy rest with these clubs, within a financial framework designed to ensure sustainability and competitive balance. This framework applies equally across the league. Cristiano has been fully involved with Al Nassr since his arrival and has played an important role in the club's growth and ambition. Like any elite competitor, he wants to win. But no one, no matter how important it is, determines decisions other than the club itself. Recent transfer activity clearly demonstrates this independence. A club strengthened itself in a specific way. Another took a different approach. These were club decisions, taken within approved financial parameters. The competitiveness of the League speaks for itself. With just a few points separating the top four, the title race is very much alive. This level of balance reflects a system that is functioning as intended. The focus continues to be on football - on the pitch, where it belongs - and maintaining a credible and competitive competition for players and fans.”