Postecoglou views Ronaldo as vital for Al Nassr. He now offers a fresh status report ahead of their AFC Champions League Elite showdown with Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana.
Addressing the media at Al‑Awwal Park, the coach highlighted the 41‑year‑old’s physical and mental sharpness after his high‑profile exit from Portugal’s camp, suggesting he’ll feature in the continental tie.
“Ronaldo is mentally and physically in great shape, and you saw him in the last game, playing the full 90 minutes and scoring, so I’m confident he’s fit,” Postecoglou told reporters.
Ronaldo looks to rebuild his confidence with Al Nassr.
The September‑October international break proved turbulent for Ronaldo. His row with head coach Jorge Jesus led to an early departure from the Portugal camp, leaving the captain facing possible sanctions over the abrupt exit.
Cristiano Ronaldo representing Al Nassr.
Back with Al Nassr, Ronaldo found the net and sensed full support from fans, staff and teammates. That boost of confidence is exactly what he aims to rebuild after a stormy spell with Portugal. For my money, his confidence will spark the team’s revival.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo resume club duties, delivering strong outings after contrasting international breaks.
Ronaldo is set to rejoin the national side in November. Yet maintaining top form at Al Nassr will be crucial to convince Jorge Jesus he deserves a starting spot despite recent tensions.
Al Nassr’s 2026–27 AFC Champions League Elite campaign got off to a shaky start. Can Al Nassr turn the tide and challenge for the title?
In Matchday 1 of the 2026–27 AFC Champions League Elite, Al Nassr endured a 4–0 drubbing away to Al Ain and now sit at the bottom of the table.
On Matchday 2, Postecoglou’s side host Uzbekistan’s Neftchi Fergana, who won their opener. At home, Al Nassr must take all three points to stave off further trouble and stay in the hunt.