Al Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo is set for a return to action after missing Portugal friendlies in North America
Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in the Al Nassr squad for Friday’s clash against Al Najma, marking the end of a month-long injury layoff that stalled his historic march toward four figures.
The global icon’s journey toward a career total of 1,000 goals is back in motion following a successful rehabilitation from a muscle tear.
Ronaldo, now 41, has been sidelined since late February after sustaining a right thigh injury during a league encounter with Al-Fayha.
His absence throughout March was keenly felt by both club and country, as the veteran sat out international friendlies against Mexico and the United States.
However, after returning to full training this week, the Portugal national team captain is expected to lead the line at Alawwal Park this evening. His last competitive goal, the 965th of his illustrious career, coincidentally came against tonight’s opponents, bottom-of-the-table Al Najma.
The timing of the forward’s return is a significant boost for Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus, whose side currently holds a narrow advantage at the summit of the Saudi Pro League.
With eight matches remaining in the domestic campaign, the Riyadh giants sit on 67 points, three ahead of a chasing Al Hilal side coached by Simone Inzaghi.
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The presence of Ronaldo alongside January arrival João Félix is viewed as critical for the run-in, particularly with a gruelling fixture list in late April that features direct title rivals.
“Everything Cristiano has done physically during the season shows that he’s in great shape,” noted Portugal head coach Roberto Martínez, who dismissed any suggestions that the attacker’s summer plans were in jeopardy.
Cristiano Ronaldo aiming for sixth World Cup appearance
Beyond the domestic title race, Ronaldo’s recovery ensures his preparations for a record-extending sixth World Cup appearance remain on track.
Despite his recent stint in the treatment room, Martínez was quick to alleviate fears regarding the captain’s availability for the upcoming tournament in North America.
“The World Cup is not at risk,” Martínez confirmed during a press conference. “It’s a minor muscle injury and we think he can return in a week or two.”
The 41-year-old’s longevity continues to defy conventional sporting logic, as he remains the most prolific marksman in the history of international football with 143 goals in 226 appearances for Portugal.
Having bagged over 50 goals in each of the last two calendar years, the Madeira-born striker is now just 35 goals shy of the elusive 1,000-goal mark.
