Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned Portuguese footballer, has been sidelined due to a viral infection, as confirmed by his club, Al Nassr. The Saudi Pro League team announced on Sunday that Ronaldo will miss their opening match in the newly rebranded Asian Champions League Elite against Iraq’s Al Shorta.
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According to the statement from Al Nassr, “Cristiano Ronaldo wasn’t feeling well today and was diagnosed with a viral infection. The team’s doctor confirmed he needs to rest and stay at home. As a result, he will not be traveling with the team to Iraq today. We wish our captain a speedy recovery.”
Ronaldo, who joined Al Nassr with high expectations but has yet to secure a major trophy with the club, was anticipated to play a significant role in the Asian Champions League Elite—a new iteration of Asia’s top club tournament. Despite his absence, Al Nassr is looking to make an impact in the competition, which features a new format and significant prize money.
Ronaldo’s next opportunity to compete in the tournament might come against Qatari club Al Rayyan on September 20 in Riyadh. Meanwhile, his absence from the opener is a setback for Al Nassr as they aim to make their mark in this prestigious tournament.
