Superstar footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to training with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr following his controversial departure from the Portugal national team camp during the international break.
The 41-year-old forward was pictured smiling as he reported back to Al-Nassr’s training centre in Riyadh, with the club welcoming the captain back on social media. The club posted pictures of Ronaldo alongside his teammates with the caption, “The GOAT. In the heart of Najd. At Al Nassr.”
Ronaldo left Portugal’s training camp last Wednesday following tensions surrounding his role in the team under newly appointed head coach Jorge Jesus. The development came after Ronaldo was left on the bench throughout Portugal’s 2-1 Nations League victory over Norway, despite warming up during the match.
Jesus later indicated that Ronaldo would not start Portugal’s subsequent fixture against Denmark, a development that reportedly contributed to the captain’s decision to leave the camp. Ronaldo subsequently confirmed his departure in a statement on social media, saying he would explain the reasons for his decision at a later time.
Despite the controversy, Portugal went on to win its next two Nations League matches without Ronaldo. Jesus has since said the door remains open for the veteran forward to return to the national team if he chooses, describing the situation as something that can be resolved.
Ronaldo has now turned his attention back to club football as he prepares to continue the season with Al-Nassr. His return comes ahead of the club’s next Saudi Pro League fixture against Al Diriyah.
