Al Nassr sits 10 points behind the Saudi Pro League leaders. Hence, Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. require a much improved 2nd half to the season if they have any title aspirations. Fortunately, the hierarchy at the club seems to be prepared to give players the best possible shot at silverware. As per recent reports, Al-Alami is set to play two friendly matches in China and receive a lucrative $13 million fee. Interestingly, this comes following reports that Inter Miami canceled their pre-season matches in China.
Al Nassr does have 3 games in the league before the winter break kicks in on December 31st. They will then resume the campaign against Al Fateh in February and the games in China will also help keep the team sharp ahead of the much-awaited Riyadh Season Cup.
Al Nassr’s 10-day China tour lined up as they receive a hefty paycheck
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As per reports, the Portuguese icon and his side will leave for China on the 19th of January to play two matches. However, it is not yet confirmed whether the matches will be against Chinese teams or other global sides. Al Alami will be in China for 10 days until January 29th and is expected to receive a total payment worth $13 million (50 million Riyals).
🚨 @a_altamimi11 🚨
Al Nassr will fly out to China on January 19th.
The duration of the stay is 10 days, the club will play two friendly games & will receive a sum of money amounting to 50 million riyals. pic.twitter.com/oVp0ysnmk3
— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) December 15, 2023
The nearly 2-month long winter break is due to the Asian Cup tournament which will be held in Qatar. The 24-team event is arguably one of the most important men’s international soccer championships in Asia. Also, 4 teams of the SPL engage in the Saudi Super Cup at this time. However, for 2024 no matches have been scheduled thus prompting speculation about whether the tournament has been postponed.
Despite the already grueling schedule, the trip to China will definitely benefit the 38-year-old soccer legend. Especially considering his recent injury issues.
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Cristiano Ronaldo set to benefit from friendlies in China
Cristiano Ronaldo suffered a neck injury against Persepolis. Although he returned to action soon, the Portuguese icon didn’t look 100% on the pitch. Considering that Ronaldo will turn 39 in 2 months, the friendlies will help him build his match fitness. Also, it will keep him in rhythm ahead of the ‘Last Dance’ against Inter Miami in February.
Cristiano Ronaldo would want to be at his best for the final encounter against his arch-rival, Lionel Messi. Furthermore, Portugal has the 2024 Euro tournament in June. Considering his disappointing FIFA World Cup campaign in Qatar, the Al Nassr talisman would want to shrug off all doubts regarding his fitness and condition before Roberto Martinez selects his team sheet.
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What do you make of Al Nassr’s decision to play friendlies in China? Let us know in the comments below.
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