Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese legend, returned to Al-Nassr’s group training session on Sunday evening.
Al-Nassr is preparing to face Arkadaj next Wednesday in the first leg of the AFC Champions League Round of 16.
Tensions are running high between Ronaldo and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the owners of Al-Nassr. The 40-year-old is reportedly furious over the club’s transfer policy during the last winter transfer window.
This anger has not been limited to angry statements made behind the scenes, but has also manifested in his controversial absence from the team’s last two Saudi Pro League matches against Al-Riyadh and Al-Ittihad.
As of now, Ronaldo has not made a final decision regarding his participation in the Arkadaj match. Neither Saudi newspapers nor those close to him have received any information about his decision to return to Al-Nassr’s matches or continue his protest, thus perpetuating the debate surrounding when he will wear the “Knights of Najd” jersey again.
It is worth noting that the Portuguese star’s record in the continental championship this season is limited to a single appearance against Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya at the end of the group stage. Jorge Jesus had previously decided to only use Ronaldo in the Saudi League and not to overwork him in the AFC Champions League 2.
