Al-Nassr calls off China tour following Cristiano Ronaldo’s injury, prompting public apology

Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo is nursing a muscle injury, leading to the postponement of friendly matches against Shanghai Shenhua and Zhejiang.

Chirag

January 23, 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo Apologises For Cancel Of Al Nassr's China Tour — Sam Bagnall - AMA/Getty Images

The Portuguese football star is currently dealing with a muscle issue that would have prevented his participation in matches against Shanghai Shenhua and Zhejiang. Consequently, with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner unable to showcase his skills to his adoring fan base, a decision has been made to postpone the mentioned friendly games for now, with plans to reschedule them at a later date.

There are indications that Ronaldo, who impressively scored 54 goals in 2023 across his appearances for Al-Nassr and Portugal, might be sidelined for a couple of weeks. If this scenario unfolds, it could mean missing out on a highly anticipated reunion with Lionel Messi when Inter Miami travels to Saudi Arabia for the Riyadh Cup.

Expressing his sentiments about the unfortunate turn of events in the Far East, Ronaldo remarked, “As you know, in football some things you cannot control. I have played 22 years in football and I am a player that doesn’t have too many injuries. So I’m really sad because Al-Nassr and myself have come to China to enjoy the tour. I have been coming to China since 2003/2004, so I feel at home here – my second home. I felt that I am always special here. I feel sad. I know you are sad too, especially the people who love Cristiano, but we have to see this in a good way. We have not cancelled the game, we want to push for the game and be back here. We will be back. Unfortunately, I have some problem, but this is part of football and my life. I’m here, I’m with the fans, I’m with the Chinese people and we are going to continue here. We can see outside the people that are with us. We are sad because we knew this could happen. We will be back to make the Chinese people happy, this is my goal. I want to play for you. Don’t be sad because I am sad and I hope you understand the circumstances of a football player.”

Al-Nassr, currently on a mid-season break in China, is adjusting its plans. The team is set to confront Messi and Inter Miami on February 1, followed by a match against Al-Hilal a week later. They will then resume competitive action in the AFC Champions League against Al Feiha on February 14.