Ronaldo to miss Al Nassr’s Champions League Opener due to viral infection

Cristiano Ronaldo will miss Al Nassr’s Asian Champions League Elite opener against Al Shorta in Iraq after being diagnosed with a viral infection. Al Nassr confirmed the Portuguese star’s illness in a statement on Sunday, saying, “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. We wish our captain a speedy recovery.”

Ronaldo, 38, had hoped to lead Al Nassr in their quest for Asia’s top club honor after a quarter-final exit in the previous edition. The Saudi club has been bolstered by major signings, including Ronaldo, and is expected to be a top contender in the revamped competition.

The tournament, now rebranded as the Asian Champions League Elite, begins Monday with a new format. Saudi clubs, including Al Nassr, Al Hilal, and Al Ahli, are seen as strong favorites after heavy investments in top-tier players like Neymar, Sadio Mane, and Ivan Toney.

Ronaldo is expected to return in time for future group-stage matches, but Al Nassr will rely on their other stars, including Mane and Marcelo Brozovic, for the opening fixture.

(Source: AFP)