Coach Luis Castro has confirmed that the 38-year-old superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo, will be absent from the friendly match between Al Nassr and Inter Miami in the early morning of February 2 (Hanoi time).

“Cristiano Ronaldo is in the final stages of injury recovery. Once he passes, he can return to training with the main squad. We will evaluate the situation in the next few days, hopefully, everything will go well with Ronaldo. We will play without Ronaldo in tomorrow’s match,” announced coach Luis Castro.

Saudi Arabian media had previously reported Ronaldo’s injury, citing evidence that he had to bandage his thigh during a training session. The possibility of issues with his thigh muscles or hamstrings cannot be ruled out, potentially sidelining CR7 for at least two weeks.

Recent footage shows Ronaldo restricted to gym exercises or light field activities under the guidance of a fitness coach. In the latest video, Ronaldo walks out to the parking lot with a slight limp in one leg. Al Nassr’s decision to rest Ronaldo aims to ensure his full recovery before entering the crucial phase of the season, targeting titles in the Saudi Pro League and AFC Champions League after the Asian Cup and CAN conclude.

This marks the first time Ronaldo has encountered injury while wearing an Al Nassr shirt. Excluding a conflict with coach Erik ten Hag that led Ronaldo to take sick leave and withdraw from playing, the striker had enjoyed nearly two consecutive years without health issues.

Meanwhile, Inter Miami recently suffered a narrow 3-4 loss to Al Hilal in the first match of the Riyadh Season Cup friendly tournament. Following their tour in Saudi Arabia, Messi and his teammates are set to play three more friendly matches against Hong Kong’s star team, Vissel Kobe, and Newell’s Old Boy, with the new season commencing on February 22.