Big Blow to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr as Injured 35YO Star Ruled Out for Al Hilal Faceoff at Riyadh Season Cup: Reports

“The rivalry is over“, claimed Cristiano Ronaldo regarding his legendary rivalry with Lionel Messi back in 2023. Hence, the Last Dance offered soccer fans a rare opportunity to watch the two icons square off potentially one last time. However, injury played spoilsport. For Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence was expected. But, they received a boost following the return of the experienced David Ospina into the lineup. Yet, they don’t seem to be getting the rub of the green as the latest reports have confirmed the worst for Ospina. Frustratingly, his injury comes when the goalkeeping position is up in the air.

Ospina had a decent 32 mins against Inter Miami and did not concede during his time on the pitch, although his team went on to triumph with a 6-0 win. As per the latest reports, the veteran goalkeeper has suffered a muscle tear. The injury is expected to keep him out for 3 weeks. This means he is effectively out for the Al Hilal game and might not be available even against Al Fayha in the AFC Champions League. The 35-year-old’s injury nightmare just doesn’t seem to end.

Back in January 2023, Ospina suffered an elbow injury. A lengthy absence followed and the Colombian did not recover until December. In the timeframe, he missed 43 games for the Saudi club! Coach Luis Castro and Co. did not even register him initially for the current RSL season. Moreover, there were rumors that Ospina could make a move to Mexico & Brazil in search of first-team opportunities. Yet, he’s made the brave decision to stay put and fight for his future at the club.

Since he arrived in 2022, the former Napoli man has played just 14 games alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. However, with 9 clean sheets, his class was quite evident. The recent injury is frustrating for all parties involved, considering the inconsistent form of first-choice goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi.

Ospina’s GK colleague questioned why he ‘does not benefit’ from Cristiano Ronaldo!

Nawaf Al Aqidi’s decent form is the reason why David Ospina wasn’t badly missed. But, his recent performances haven’t been the best having conceded 6 goals in the last 4 matches. As a result, legendary Saudi goalkeeper Mohammad Al-Deayea isn’t impressed. He said, “Nawaf Al-Aqidi’s level is declining. I would like to know why he does not benefit from Cristiano Ronaldo and learn from him.”

Read More: Forced to Leave Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Teammate Reduced to Tears After Return From Long Injury

Trailing Al Hilal by just 7 points, Cristiano Ronaldo & Co. would want their goalie to rediscover his best form before the business end of the season begins. As for Ospina, his contract ends on June 30, 2024, and the current injury likely means that Al Nassr would mostly not renew his services.

Would you offer Ospina a contract extension? Tell us in the comments below.

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