Riyadh has welcomed Cristiano Ronaldo back into Al-Nassr training after an unsettled international break with Portugal, with the forward returning to the Saudi club in time for the resumption of the domestic title race.
Key takeaways
- Al-Nassr confirmed that Ronaldo has rejoined the squad and trained alongside his team-mates.
- The club marked his return with a message describing him as “The GOAT” and placing him “in the heart of Najd”.
- Ronaldo left Portugal’s camp after he was not used against Norway.
- Jorge Jesus reportedly told the striker he would not feature in Portugal’s remaining fixtures during the international window.
- His early departure has raised fresh uncertainty around his future with the Portuguese national side.
An abrupt end to Portugal duty
The 40-year-old’s return to the Gulf followed a difficult spell with Portugal during the Nations League window. Ronaldo did not take the field in the match against Norway and subsequently departed the national-team gathering before its conclusion.
Jorge Jesus is said to have informed Portugal’s record goalscorer that he would not receive minutes in the subsequent international matches. That decision prompted Ronaldo’s early exit and brought renewed attention to his place in the national setup.
The situation has drawn a notable response from Portuguese supporters, given Ronaldo’s standing as the country’s defining modern football figure. For now, there is no clarity over whether he will remain involved with Portugal in the next international cycle.
Back in Riyadh for Al-Nassr’s pursuit
At Al-Nassr, the immediate focus is the Saudi Pro League. The Riyadh side remain among the teams challenging near the top of the table and will look to use the restart to reduce the gap to the clubs above them.
Ronaldo’s return gives Al-Nassr back one of their central attacking figures. His experience, leadership and scoring record will again be important as the club resumes its campaign in Saudi Arabia.
There was also a small visual surprise in the club’s image from training: Ronaldo appeared with a refreshed look as he began preparing with the group once more.
