Al Nassr head coach Luis Castro seems to have his hands tied behind his back at the moment. While the manager would love to select his best eleven heading into the clash against Al Hilal, things are not according to his discretion at the moment. Castro addressed the situation surrounding Sultan Al-Ghannam during his press conference, voicing his frustration on external factors influencing his first-team decisions.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation is currently investigating Al Nassr star Sultan Al-Ghannam’s absence from the national team during the AFC Asian Cup. According to reports, the federation could impose heavy restrictions on Sultan if he is found guilty of neglecting the national call-up. Al Nassr goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi was also among the names on the investigation file. However, he has been given a clean chit after the committee confirmed his attendance during the national camp.

Luis Castro displeased with the controversy surrounding Sultan Al-Ghannam

Sultan Al-Ghannam’s future is hanging on a balance, with the Saudi Arabian FA keen on imposing a heavy fine on players found violating the national call-up guidelines. Al-Ghannam has been accused of ditching the national squad to remain with Al Nassr, something that could have massive repercussions. Al Nassr head coach Luis Castro commented on the investigation during his press conference, stating, “I am sad because I do not know who I can include tomorrow due to external matters, and I hope that the decisions will be announced today so that we will know what to do tomorrow.”

The Al Nassr defender is not the only one who has been accused of ditching the national team. Al Hilal’s Salman Al-Faraj has also found himself in the same boat. If the ongoing investigation rules against the duo, both players could face a short-term ban or/and a hefty fine. With Castro still unsure about the situation whirling around his defender, we could see the manager make critical changes to his team.

READ MORE: Real Madrid Invite Cristiano Ronaldo to Santiago Bernabeu Inauguration Through Al Nassr Friendly

Cristiano Ronaldo set for a face-off against Al Hilal

Al Nassr head coach Luis Castro provided a fresh update to fans ahead of the team’s upcoming clash against Al Hilal. The Portuguese tactician confirmed Cristiano’s involvement in the contest, giving the green light to the player. The Al Nassr skipper has been out of action since January, with the player attending his first team training session of the year last week.

Cristiano has been out with a muscular injury that forced Al Nassr to scrap their China tour. The player was also absent for the team’s match against Inter Miami, but it seems he’s recovered from his injury and will take to the field this Thursday. With Cristiano Ronaldo back in the mix, who do you think will win the contest between Al Nassr and Al Hilal? Let us know in the comments below.

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule