Cristiano Ronaldo breaks his silence on his obscene gesture towards Al-Shabab fans that has caused anger in Saudi Arabia… ‘as he faces a ban of at least two games and a fine’

Cristiano Ronaldo broke his silence over his obscene gesture towards Al-Shabab fans while celebrating Al-Nassr’s 3-2 victory amid protests against the striker.

The 39-year-old has reportedly been summoned by Saudi Pro League bosses to explain the gesture he made towards fans shouting ‘Messi, Messi’ at him, while covering his ears before pointing towards his nether regions. .

Ronaldo has now spoken out after being criticized for the celebration, defending his actions and insisting he meant no disrespect.

It comes after reports from Marca claimed Ronaldo’s gesture was seen as “immoral” in the highly religious country, with officials planning to hand him at least a two-match suspension, as well as a fine.

Ronaldo has scored 34 goals in 25 games for Al-Nassr this season and has been one of the standout figures in the country’s division since moving in 2022, but his legendary status will not exempt him from punishment.

Ronaldo appeared to make an obscene gesture following Al-Nassr’s victory over Al-Shabab after home fans taunted him with ‘Messi’ chants.

Ronaldo has been one of the most prominent figures in Saudi football since joining Al-Nassr in 2022.

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“I respect all clubs,” Ronaldo said. ‘And the joy after the (game) expresses strength and victory, and is not shameful. We’re used to it in Europe.’

After Ronaldo opened the scoring from the penalty spot, his team was slowed by a penalty from former Atlético Madrid star Yannick Carrasco on the stroke of half-time.

Talisca restored the visitors’ lead after the restart, with the Brazilian again on hand to secure the late winner for Al Nassr after Carlos had equalized for the hosts.

With three points secured after the 3-2 victory, Ronaldo congratulated his teammates at the final whistle.

But in response to fans allegedly chanting Messi’s name at him, Ronaldo put his hand to his ear before gesturing towards his crotch with the signal apparently directed at the fans present.

The Portugal star insisted he meant no disrespect and that his celebration was something “we are used to in Europe.”

Ronaldo, who scored a penalty during the match, could miss at least two games and be fined if he fails to get out of trouble.

AS added that Ronaldo is ‘on the ropes’ in this scenario.

The Ethics and Disciplinary Committee of the Saudi Pro League will hear Ronaldo’s story first-hand before making a decision.

If Ronaldo were suspended for the next two matches, he would miss two home games against Al Hazem and Al Raed – a blow to their title hopes – but would return for a crucial match against Al Ahli, who are directly behind them. in the classification. table.

Al-Nassr currently sit second in the Saudi Pro League, seven points behind league leaders Al-Hilal with nine games remaining.