Al-Nassr manager Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo is ready to feature against Al-Diriyah in Friday’s Saudi Pro League Matchday 8 fixture at Al-Awwal Park.
The Australian manager’s remarks follow Ronaldo’s return to Al-Nassr training after a contentious stint with the Portugal national team, during which he departed the camp before the conclusion of their UEFA Nations League matches.
Speaking at a press conference, Postecoglou stated: “Ronaldo returned in good shape and is mentally and physically ready, which is the most important thing for us,” confirming there are no physical issues preventing the club captain from playing against Al-Diriyah.
The Al-Nassr boss declined to get involved in Ronaldo’s rift with Portugal manager Jorge Jesus, noting that having previously managed national teams, he always rejected interference from club coaches in international affairs, while emphasizing that the player is training with high morale and remains a vital asset to his squad.
Ronaldo had featured in Portugal’s opening match against Wales but remained an unused substitute throughout the following fixture against Norway despite warming up. He subsequently left the camp prior to the matches against Denmark and the second Norway clash, missing three of Portugal’s four games during the international break.
The 41-year-old forward later clarified that Jesus had suggested he play only in the first and final matches, but the manager’s post-match comments following the Norway game led him to feel the agreement was not respected. Ronaldo apologized to his teammates for departing early while maintaining that his decision did not signal his retirement from international football.
Portugal continued their campaign without their captain, securing a 4-2 victory over Denmark and a 2-1 win against Norway to maintain a perfect record across four matches and seal qualification for the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, while Ronaldo returned early to Riyadh to resume training with Al-Nassr.
Reigning champions Al-Nassr currently sit third in the Saudi Pro League standings with 16 points—two points behind leaders Al-Hilal and one behind Al-Ittihad. Consequently, Ronaldo is expected to return to the starting lineup against Al-Diriyah in a match where Postecoglou’s side cannot afford to drop points.
