Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr release angry statement after fan copied Lionel Messi

Al-Nassr released a furious statement after a fan mocked Cristiano Ronaldo with a cheeky nod to Lionel Messi in their dressing room. It took place ahead of Monday’s game between the Saudi club and Al Shorta in the Asian Champions League, which Ronaldo did not feature in.

The fan, a YouTuber known as BO3OMAR22, was on a tour of Al-Nassr’s stadium and got to sit in Ronaldo’s seat in the dressing room. He was pictured cupping his hands to his ears, which was seemingly a nod to Messi’s celebration from the World Cup two years ago.

Al-Nassr went on to issue a remarkable statement condemning the fan’s actions, which read: “We would like to point out that Al-Nassr Club has always been welcoming to its visitors, fans and lovers, and throughout its long history its doors have been open to all.

“However, what happened yesterday inside the dressing room at the First Park Stadium, in terms of individual (irresponsible) actions, is unacceptable by some people who do not appreciate the value of the party they represent, nor the place and entity that left it.

“They did not respect its fans. We would like to clarify that we at Al-Nassr Club Company have directed the concerned internal departments to immediately address the issue to preserve the club’s literary, moral and material rights, with full assurance that the club’s doors and all its facilities are open to every fan as long as they comply.

The fan involved later issued an apology, posting on his social media channels: “I apologise if the photo bothered you. The situation was a joke and I made a mistake.”

Ronaldo is regularly taunted by chants about Messi while playing in Saudi Arabia, with opposition fans doing so with the aim of riling him up. Earlier this year, he appeared stony-faced when rival supporters chanted the name of his greatest rival during a game against Al-Ain.

Previously, he earned a two-match ban for making an obscene gesture to fans who were singing Messi’s name. After a late goal from Talisca handed victory to Al-Nassr, he celebrated by thrusting his pelvis in the direction of Al-Shabab supporters.

Ronaldo was also ordered to pay a fine of £4,190 despite issuing a statement to defend his behaviour. He said: “I respect all clubs. And the joy after the shot expresses strength and victory, and it is not shameful. We are used to it in Europe.”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has also responded to previous Messi chants by grabbing his crotch and shushing the crowd, with fans showing no sign of easing off.