Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr To Bench Star Amid 2026 World Cup Dispute: Report
Al Nassr is reportedly refusing to release Spanish centre-back Aymeric Laporte amid a dispute that could impact his chances for the 2026 World Cup.
The Saudi club is prepared to ‘hold back’ star defender Laporte despite his desire to leave, as part of their efforts to build a title-winning squad, according to reports.
Laporte, who joined Al Nassr from Manchester City for a reported fee of £23.6 million, experienced limited playing time last season.
Reports in July suggested that the new coach Jorge Jesus did not include Laporte in his plans and that Athletic Club from Spain had expressed interest in bringing him back.
According to well-known journalist Fabrizio Romano, Athletic Club and Al Nassr have yet to reach an agreement over Laporte’s transfer, despite Laporte agreeing to personal terms with the Spanish club.
“No agreement so far between Athletic Club and Al Nassr for Aymeric Laporte. The initial proposal was rejected days ago by Al Nassr and no fresh bid has been submitted from Bilbao yet,” Romano tweeted on Thursday.
Spanish sports daily Marca also confirmed that Laporte’s move from Al Nassr remains stalled.
Reports further indicate that Al Nassr may keep Laporte sidelined for a year, possibly registering him only for the AFC Champions League 2 and excluding him from other competitions.
Laporte last featured on May 26 in a Saudi Pro League match against Al Fateh. His contract with Al Nassr runs until June next year.
