As Al Nassr announced their line-up for the Saudi Pro League 2023-24 opening match today, Cristiano Ronaldo’s name is missing from the starting XI. The Portugal star’s name is missing from the substitute list as well. Meanwhile, fans are left with the question ‘Why is Cristiano Ronaldo not playing today match for Al Nassr’? So, here we will tell you the reason behind striker’s absence tonight.

Why is Cristiano Ronaldo not playing today vs Al Ettifaq?

Al Nassr played their last match on August 12, Arab Cup Champions Cup final against Al Hilal. In the game, yellow-clad side found themselves trailing 1-0 until the initial 74 minutes of the match. But then came Ronaldo’s master-class,whose brilliant goal leveled the score and extended the game into extra time.

In the 98th minute, Ronaldo’s exceptional skills shone once again, netting a crucial second goal, securing a 2-1 lead. This decisive goal proved to be the game-winner, as Al Hilal couldn’t find the net in the remaining 22 minutes, sealing the victory for Al Nassr.

However, before the conclusion of the game, in the 112th minute, Cristiano Ronaldo suffered a knee injury while challenging for the ball with Al Hilal’s Mohammad Jahfali. He had to leave the field after getting assistance from the medical team. However, there was a moment of relief for fans as Ronaldo joined the Al Nassr players during the trophy celebration and also received his Golden Boot award.

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The 38-year-old footballer is recovering well from the injury but has been given a one-match rest. So, this is the reason, Cristiano Ronaldo is not playing today. The Al Nassr striker is expected to return in their 2nd match of the season which is scheduled to play on August 18 against Al Taawoun.