Al Nassr Injury Update: The Latest on Cristiano Ronaldo’s Uncertainty, Otavio Missing From Team Training

As the 2023/24 Roshn Saudi League season nears its conclusion, Al Nassr is gearing up for the climax. Having missed out on the title, the Knights of the Najd will at least look to end the campaign on a high note with victories in their remaining four games. Next up for them is an away clash against Al Akhdoud but just hours before the match, some concerning injury updates came to light. Aside from the latest on star player Cristiano Ronaldo, Otavio’s absence from team training adds to the matters.

As for the Al Nassr skipper, earlier reports from Saudi journalist Abdulaziz Al Osaimi stated that despite CR7 feeling satisfied with yesterday’s gym session, it was uncertain whether he was ready enough to play against the Najran-based side. The 39-year-old had allegedly missed the team’s training session. However, as per the latest reports from the X-based account, @X99i3, Ronaldo is participating along with the whole group without any uneasiness and is ready for tonight’s action. 

Meanwhile, concerning Otavio, there are some distressing updates. According to reports from the X account, @Nfcdiario, the star midfielder missed group training due to exhaustion. Constant fatigue compelled him to take a break from regular sessions and participate in light drills. This suggests that Otavio might not be ready to face Al Akhdoud and could potentially start the match from the bench. 

However, the final decision from the coaching staff will determine whether the former Porto man will play or not. As if such updates weren’t problematic enough for Al Nassr, they might be in for further blow!

Huge blow for Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. as Al Nassr star faces potential three-match ban

Aymeric Laporte may be unavailable for Al Nassr in their final three matches due to a potential ban. According to various reports from X, this punishment follows a red card he received during the opening leg of the AFC Champions League quarter-final against Al Ain, resulting in a narrow victory for the UAE side. Consequently, Laporte missed the second leg, despite Al Nassr’s 4-2 victory to level the aggregate score, ultimately losing 1-3 on penalties. 

As a result, he might miss the upcoming clashes against Al Hilal (on May 17) and an away match against Al Riyadh (on May 23), in addition to today’s game. However, he could potentially return for the final league clash against formidable rivals Al Ittihad at Al Awaal Park on May 27, as well as for the King Cup of Champions final against Al Hilal. It remains to be seen how Al Nassr navigates these turbulent waters, but for now, the focus remains on getting 3 points.