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Cristiano Ronaldo will not play in the Al Nassr vs. Al-Khaleej match as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury that has proven more serious than initially expected.
Al-Khaleej will host Al Nassr at Al-Khaleej Club Stadium for matchday 26 of the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo, 41, will miss this game.
The Portuguese forward was already absent in Al Nassr's 1-0 victory against Neom SC on March 7. Head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed that Ronaldo traveled to Madrid to receive treatment and advance his recovery.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates victory after winning the Saudi Pro League match between Al Najmah and Al Nassr at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium on February 25, 2026, in Buraydah, Saudi Arabia. Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
(Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Coach Jesus explained that medical examinations revealed the injury was more severe than first thought. "The Portuguese captain traveled to Spain to receive treatment from his personal doctor in Madrid, a common step for players seeking specialized medical care. We hope he returns soon to help the team," he said.
Al Nassr remains the league leader with 64 points after 25 games, holding a record of 21 wins, one draw, and three losses.
Before his injury, Ronaldo was enjoying another strong season. In 26 appearances across the Saudi Pro League, King's Cup, Super Cup, and AFC Champions League Two, he has scored 22 goals and provided four assists.
For comparison, last season Ronaldo scored 35 goals and made four assists in 41 games.
According to FotMob, Ronaldo is expected to return at the end of March. Following the match against Al-Khaleej, Al Nassr's upcoming fixtures are against Al-Najma on April 3 and Al Akhdoud on April 11.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on March 14, 2026, where it first appeared in the Soccer section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
