Al Nassr are set to journey to Iraq to face Al Zawraa on Matchday 2 of the 2025-26 AFC Champions League 2, aiming to increase their successful streak to 6 matches throughout all competitions. Because the squad ready to go away Saudi Arabia, head coach Jorge Jesus defined why Cristiano Ronaldo has been not noted of the journey.
Coming off a standout efficiency in opposition to Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad on Friday, the place Ronaldo scored a decisive aim to safe three factors and reclaim the highest spot within the Saudi Professional League, the striker stays pivotal for Al Nassr. However with the membership competing on three fronts this season (the league, AFC Champions League 2, and the King’s Cup), the teaching employees have launched a rotation coverage to handle his workload.
Talking to the media on Tuesday about his resolution, Jesus was clear: “I believed this was the very best time to relaxation Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s presently 40 years outdated, and we concern he may undergo accidents, that’s why I made a decision to exclude him.”
The Portuguese coach additionally harassed his confidence in the remainder of the squad following their dominant 5-0 win within the opening group recreation in opposition to FC Istiklol. “The gamers are very motivated to win and have a powerful need to take action. It is going to be a troublesome match, however we’re able to compete,” Jesus stated.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr (L) and group head coach Jorge Jesus of Al-Nassr (R) react
All different Al Nassr stars will journey to Baghdad, together with new signings João Félix, Kingsley Coman, and Iñigo Martínez, as Jesus seems to be to safe three factors away from dwelling. Haroune Camara is anticipated to guide the road in Ronaldo’s absence.
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Ronaldo’s relaxation and nationwide group responsibility
Not like earlier seasons, Ronaldo’s minutes at Al Nassr are being fastidiously managed — not due to type, however to protect his health for the decisive phases of the marketing campaign. Having already sat out the opening AFC Champions League 2 match and began on the bench in final week’s King’s Cup fixture, he’ll now miss one other recreation as a part of this technique.
The remaining interval additionally serves to maintain him contemporary for Portugal’s upcoming UEFA World Cup Qualifiers. With Al Nassr not in motion once more till after the October worldwide break, Ronaldo could have additional time to organize for Portugal’s conflict in opposition to the Republic of Eire on Oct. 11, adopted by a key match in opposition to Hungary on Oct. 14.
