Cristiano Ronaldo’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has hit an unexpected roadblock. The veteran forward is now a major doubt for Portugal’s last pre-tournament training camp after suffering a hamstring injury while playing for Al-Nassr in a Saudi Pro League fixture. The Portuguese national team is now anxiously watching their captain’s recovery.
Cristiano Ronaldo Hamstring Injury Raises Concerns
During Al-Nassr’s recent clash with Al-Fayha, Ronaldo left the pitch in the 81st minute due to apparent leg discomfort. Soon after, the Saudi club confirmed his hamstring injury in an official update. “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury after the last game against Al-Fayha,” the club said in a statement. “He started a rehabilitation program and will be under evaluation day by day.”
According to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo could be sidelined for up to two to four weeks after sustaining a muscle injury. As it stands, he is expected to miss the next two Al-Nassr matches while continuing his recovery. His availability for the Portugal national football team during the international break later this month will depend on how quickly he recovers in the coming weeks.
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The news comes at a delicate time for Portugal manager Roberto Martínez, who is about to announce his squad for two international friendlies later this month. Portugal faces Mexico on March 28 and the USMNT on March 31. These games are the last major camp before World Cup preparations intensify.
For Martínez and his coaching staff, the games are an important opportunity to fine-tune tactics and evaluate squad options ahead of the tournament. Ronaldo’s potential absence would deprive the team of both a key goal scorer and its most seasoned player.
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The injury is also a setback for Saudi Arabian giants Al-Nassr, who are pushing for domestic success. Despite being 41, Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 21 goals in the SPL this season and remains decisive for the team.
The club’s medical staff is managing his recovery carefully, mindful that muscle injuries require caution, especially given his age. Though Ronaldo is known for his elite fitness, rushing his return could worsen the injury and threaten his participation in the World Cup.
For now, both club and country wait as Ronaldo undergoes daily evaluations, hoping he recovers in time to lead Portugal at football’s biggest stage.
