Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from Al Nassr's lineup in their Saudi Pro League 2024-25 clash against Al Akhdoud on Monday left fans buzzing with questions. The match, held at Prince Hathloul bin Abdulaziz Sports City Stadium in Najran, saw Al Nassr taking the field without their biggest starтАФand here's why.
Ronaldo Benched? Here's the Likely Reason
According to media reports, Al Nassr head coach Stefano Pioli made a tactical decision to rest the 39-year-old Portuguese legend due to signs of physical exhaustion. Ronaldo has been a workhorse lately, playing full matches against both Al Ittihad and KawasakiтАФgames that were critical but also physically taxing.
In fact, the last time Ronaldo was subbed off before full-time was during the AFC Champions League Elite quarterfinal win over Yokohama FM. Since then, heтАЩs been on the pitch for every minute of every match. As the long season takes its toll and with Al Nassr now out of the title race, it seems the coaching staff is prioritizing recovery and long-term strategy.
Al NassrтАЩs Recent Struggles
Al Nassr currently sits fifth on the table with 60 points from 30 matches, following a 2-3 loss to league leaders Al Ittihad. That defeat, coupled with a disappointing result against JapanтАЩs Kawasaki in the AFC Champions League Elite stage, has derailed their title hopes. With direct AFC Champions League qualification also under threat, the focus may now be on conserving energy for the crucial matches ahead.
WhatтАЩs Next for Ronaldo and Al Nassr?
While fans were disappointed not to see CR7 in action, his absence may just be a short break. Al Nassr is expected to monitor his fitness before putting him back on the pitch. With a few important fixtures remaining, keeping Ronaldo fresh could be key to finishing the season strong and aiming for a spot in continental competition.
Stay tuned for updates on RonaldoтАЩs return and Al NassrтАЩs fight to finish the season on a high note!
