Al Nassr postpones China friendly matches due to Cristiano Ronaldo injury

Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in China has sent the country into a frenzy not seen in recent years, but the former Real Madrid star’s trip to Asia won’t have a happy ending. Al Nassr have announced they have surprisingly postponed their two scheduled friendly matches against Shanghai Shenhua and Zhejiang because the Portugal captain is carrying an injury.

China mayhem changes Al Nassr’s plans

Al Nassr’s stay in China has been made complicated by the attention they - and Ronaldo in particular - have received since landing. First, waves of fans surrounded their hotel, forcing a press conference featuring Luis Castro to be moved. Then, the same happened with a training session.

What injury does Cristiano Ronaldo have?

The 38-year-old has uttered words of gratitude to the Chinese fans and has asked for their understanding regarding his injury: “I love this country. I love being here. I love being with you. I want to play for you. Please don’t be sad, because I am too. I apologise to all the fans, but I cannot play,” Ronaldo told the media, confirming he had a small injury, rumoured to be a calf problem.

He added: “As you know, in soccer, there are things you can’t control. In 22 years, I haven’t had many injuries, so I’m very sad because Al Nassr and I came to enjoy this tour. I’ve been coming here since 2003 or 2004, I feel at home here, I feel like it is my second home.”

Will Ronaldo play for Al Nassr against Messi and Miami?

The big question now is whether Ronaldo will be fit to play in Al Nassr’s friendly Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, which is due to take place on Thursday 1 February and could be the last time the old Clásico foes ever come face to face on the field.

As for the games in China, the Saudi Pro League club have said fans who have bought tickets will be reimbursed and they are looking for new dates on which to return with their superstar striker.

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