Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Al-Nassr training in good shape
Ange Postecoglou confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo is match-ready while declining to comment on Portugal national team controversies.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 / Author: Mehdi Marizad
Al-Nassr head coach Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo has rejoined the squad in prime condition. The forward is immediately in contention to start this Friday as the Riyadh side hosts Al-Diriyah in the eighth matchday of the Saudi Pro League.
During his pre-match press conference, the Australian tactician remained focused on domestic success, firmly refusing to address ongoing speculation regarding the forward's early departure from international duty with Portugal.
Cristiano has returned to the club in good physical and mental shape. That is the most important thing for us. Ange Postecoglou
When pressed on reported friction between the forward and Portugal manager Jorge Jesus, Postecoglou shut down the topic: "I don't like club managers commenting on what happens in the national team, so I won't talk about it."
Beyond the focus on their star talisman, Al-Nassr received a boost as Joao Felix returned to full training. The coaching staff is now awaiting the return of their Saudi international contingent following their success in the Arabian Gulf Cup, where they defeated the UAE in the final on Wednesday.
Al-Nassr currently sits two points off the league summit. With a congested schedule ahead, the club is looking to maintain pressure on rivals Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad. Ronaldo, meanwhile, continues his pursuit of a historic 1,000-goal milestone, currently sitting at 979 goals.