Cristiano Ronaldo is sidelined for the Al Nassr vs. Al-Khaleej fixture, as he is still recuperating from a hamstring injury that turned out to be more severe than initially anticipated.
The 26th matchday of the Saudi Pro League will see Al-Khaleej welcome Al Nassr to the Al-Khaleej Club Stadium. Consequently, the 41-year-old Ronaldo will not participate in this encounter.
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The Portuguese superstar had already been unavailable for his team’s 1-0 win over Neom SC on March 7. Head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo journeyed to Madrid for treatment to accelerate his rehabilitation.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates a victory after their Saudi Pro League match against Al Najmah at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium on February 25, 2026, in Buraydah, Saudi Arabia. Image credit: Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
(Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Coach Jesus stated that diagnostic tests indicated the injury was graver than first thought. He added, “The Portuguese captain journeyed to Spain to consult with his personal physician in Madrid, a routine practice for athletes seeking specialized medical attention. We anticipate his swift return to assist the squad.”
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With 64 points from 25 matches, Al Nassr maintains its position atop the league standings, boasting a record of 21 victories, a single draw, and three defeats.
Before sustaining his injury, Ronaldo was, once more, enjoying an exceptional season. Across 26 appearances this term in the Saudi Pro League, King’s Cup, Super Cup, and AFC Champions League Two, he has notched 22 goals and provided four assists.
For comparison, Ronaldo tallied 35 goals and four assists over 41 matches during the previous season.
FotMob reports that the Portuguese star is projected to make his comeback by the conclusion of March. Following their fixture against Al-Khaleej, Al Nassr’s subsequent matches are scheduled for April 3 against Al-Najma and April 11 against Al Akhdoud.
This article was initially released by Athlon Sports on March 14, 2026, first appearing in their Soccer section. To designate Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source, click here.