Cristiano Ronaldo sent out an inspiring message as the Al-Nassr superstar was snapped preparing to return to Saudi Pro League action against Al-Wehda.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

• Ronaldo sat out the last match vs Al-Hazem
• Yet Al-Nassr managed to win 2-1
• The Portuguese forward will be back on Friday

• Table of Contents

  Toggle

  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Ronaldo was one of several high-profile players left out of Stefano Pioli's matchday squad when Al-Nassr faced Al-Hazem in the round of 32 stage of the King's Cup. His exclusion was a calculated decision by Pioli, who wanted to give his veteran forward some much-needed rest ahead of crucial fixtures after he starred in Al-Nassr's comprehensive 3-0 victory over Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League the previous week.

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Despite Ronaldo's absence, Al-Nassr secured a thrilling 2-1 win over Al-Hazem. The game saw Sadio Mane opening the scoring during first-half stoppage time, but it was Nawaf Boushal who scored the decisive winner, ensuring his side's progression to the next round.

• WHAT RONALDO SAID

  In the lead-up to his return, Ronaldo took to social media to share an inspiring message with his fans. Posting a series of training photos, the Portuguese superstar captioned them: "Working hard 🔥".

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR RONALDO?

  As Al-Nassr looks to maintain its momentum in both domestic and continental competitions, Ronaldo’s return is well-timed. After facing Al-Wehda in the Saudi Pro League on Friday, they will lock horns against Qatari side Al-Rayyan in a crucial AFC Champions League encounter on Monday. Having already netted five goals in six appearances this season, a refreshed Ronaldo looks poised to add to his goal tally and help his team in these high-stakes encounters.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News