Cristiano Ronaldo brought a wave of joy and excitement after shifting to Saudi Arabia. Even today, ardent fans who root for the Portuguese superstar are on cloud nine from his presence. But it isn’t the case for everyone, as a renowned journalist in the Gulf Country has a theory that referees may be purposefully denying Ronaldo’s ‘legitimate’ goals to force him to leave the nation.

The frustration was evident during his side’s 3-0 loss against Al Hilal on Friday. If this journalist is to be believed there exists an agenda amongst multiple referees to drive the global superstar away from the country via shoddy officiating. 

Are referees trying to make Cristiano Ronaldo leave Saudi Arabia? 

Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in the Roshn Saudi League has done countless wonders. In fact, he is one of the reasons why the Gulf League is on the soccer map. While the 38-year-old’s presence is liked by the majority of the Middle Eastern population, it seems few are unhappy. This comes after renowned journalist Saud Al Sarami claimed that the referees are deliberately getting on Ronaldo’s nerves by disallowing his goals.

Recently, Mr Al Sarami said, “It looks like the referees are purposely annoying Cristiano Ronaldo by disallowing his ‘valid’ goals until he leaves the Saudi championship.” Notably, there have been many instances where Ronaldo’s goal has been ruled out, even if it was correct. A recent example took place in the Al Hilal match when he executed an impressive left-footed volley into the net’s roof after a cross from Sadio Mane in the 73rd minute.

Ronaldo was celebrating, but an offside flag cut it short. There was disagreement, to the point where Al Nassr manager Luis Castro showed the fourth official a picture from his phone, claiming it proved Ronaldo was onside. In fact, following these incidents, Ronaldo made a gesture indicating that the referees were biased. 

READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo Set to Make 1st Investment in Saudi Arabia as His Business Goes Global

CR7 asserted the referees were impartial against his team vs. Al Hilal

Ronaldo’s frustration escalated when he attempted to halt Al Hilal’s Bono from restarting play, aiming for a VAR review. This led to Ronaldo gesturing that the referee was taking sides. His irritation further intensified when the referee disregarded a potential penalty for Bono’s challenge in the game’s closing moments. 

Puzzled by the decision, the skipper concluded the match by repeatedly signalling the imperative need for VAR intervention. In addition, Luis Castro criticized the referee for showing favouritism toward the home side.

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule