Now 38 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to draw a huge following while playing for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.
The Portuguese superstar has been prolific throughout this season, scoring 17 goals in 19 matches so far, while assisting nine more across all competitions. He leads the Saudi Pro League standings in terms of both goals and assists after 12 matches, underpinning his importance to the squad.
Yet it's that crucial role that has manager Luis Castro concerned about Ronaldo's heavy workload. Aside from getting some rest in the first game of the league season and their first King's Cup game, Ronaldo has played every single minute of every match this season across all competitions.
With Al Nassr sitting comfortably atop their AFC Champions League group, Castro has decided to prioritise league play for the time being – and that has affected Ronaldo's availability for their midweek road match in Doha.
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Al Nassr manager Luis Castro confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo will not play for Al Nassr against Al Duhail in the AFC Champions League on November 7.
Castro stated that Ronaldo needed rest due to his heavy workload this season. "Cristiano Ronaldo will not participate in the Al-Duhail match because he is tired due to his many participations," Castro said in his pre-match press conference.
"I know that there are those who want to see him, but he needs to rest. He is not ready, but we have many stars. I did not decide to exclude the legend Cristiano Ronaldo, but his capabilities decided that, because 48 hours ago he played a match, and before that he played 120 minutes."
Defender Aymeric Laporte will also reportedly be rested for the game after picking up a
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