Al Nassr were dealt a blow as captain Cristiano Ronaldo was ruled out of their AFC Champions League match against Al Shorta on September 16.
The Saudi Pro League side journeyed to Baghdad on Sunday ahead of the fixture with the Iraqi side — their first in the competition in 2024/25.
Ronaldo has started the season in strong form for his club side, scoring four goals in five games in all competitions. He also netted in each of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League fixtures in the September international break as he became the first male player to hit 900 career goals for club and country.
However, the 39-year-old will play no part in Monday’s match after being told he requires rest.
MORE: All the latest soccer action | Cristiano Ronaldo news
Cristiano Ronaldo fitness update
Al Nassr confirmed on September 15 that Ronaldo had contracted a virus and had been recommended by the team doctor to stay at home to recover rather than travel with his teammates for the AFC Champions League match with Al Shorta.
Medical report 📄 pic.twitter.com/EXaas0K1In
— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) September 15, 2024
The club will hope to have the forward available again for their next Saudi Pro League match against Al Ettifaq on September 20.