Al Nassr gutted out a tough victory over Al Ettifaq despite Cristiano Ronaldo being subbed off in the first half. As concerns over his physical condition continue to build, head coach Ange Postecoglou outlined the club’s plan to manage the superstar’s workload and availability for the games ahead.
“Ronaldo is a special athlete. The plan was for him to play 45 minutes against Al-Ettifaq, after featuring for 30 minutes in the previous match. Gradually, he will work his way up to full match fitness. For now, I believe 45 minutes is the right limit until he’s fully back,” Postecoglou said during his pre-match press conference ahead of Friday’s fixture.
Ronaldo took to social media after the victory to clear the air and keep spirits high within the squad despite his early exit. With the drama settled, supporters are eager to see if he will feature in Al Nassr‘s upcoming Saudi Pro League clash against Al Taawon.
Meanwhile, Postecoglou is taking time to find the right tactical balance, recognizing that while Ronaldo works his way back to 100%, the team must rely on its depth to stay on track toward its ultimate goal: the Saudi Pro League title.
Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al Nassr FC
Postecoglou addresses Ronaldo’s reaction to first-half exit
While Cristiano projected calm on social media, he was visibly frustrated when taken off, a reaction Postecoglou addressed directly when discussing the star’s managed minute restriction moving forward.
“I understand Cristiano Ronaldo’s personality and his frustration during the Al-Ettifaq match. He was furious at halftime, but in the dressing room after the match, he was right there with the team leading the celebrations. Ronaldo is passionate, loves the game, and is fully committed to Al-Nassr,” Postecoglou said.
Al Nassr projected starting XI vs. Al Taawon
With Ronaldo set for a limited role, anticipation is building over how Postecoglou will structure his squad for the next match. Here is a look at Al Nassr’s potential starting XI against Al Taawon:
- Goalkeeper: Bento
- Defenders: Nawaf Boushal, Mohamed Simakan, Inigo Martinez, Salem Al-Najdi
- Midfielders: Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Samu Costa
- Forwards: Kingsley Coman, Joao Felix, Sadio Mane, Cristiano Ronaldo
SurveyCan Cristiano Ronaldo return to peak form and lead Al Nassr to back-to-back titles?
Can Cristiano Ronaldo return to peak form and lead Al Nassr to back-to-back titles?
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