Cristiano Ronaldo sends 26-word message as he misses Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League Elite clash due to viral infection
Cristiano Ronaldo wished his teammates well and sent a message to fans ahead of Al-Nassr's AFC Champions League Elite match. The Saudi Arabian side face Iraqi club Al-Shorta in their opening Champions League fixture on Monday (September 16).
However, the Portuguese icon didn't travel with the Al-Nassr squad for the away trip after he was diagnosed with a viral infection that left him unwell. The club released a statement on Sunday confirming that Ronaldo would take no part in the encounter and has been advised to rest by club doctors.
The Al-Nassr captain has wished his teammates good luck for the encounter. He also sent a shout-out to his fans in Iraq, saying that he hopes to see them soon. Ronaldo posted an Instagram story with the caption:
"Wishing my teammates the best of luck for the game and a specail message to all my fans in Iraq - Hope to see you all soon!"
Al-Nassr will hope to kickstart their Champions League campaign with a victory without their star man. As usual, the Portuguese has been instrumental for the side this season, netting four goals and providing two assists in five matches across competitions.
The Knights of Najd hope to have the 39-year-old back in the team for their next fixture. They next battle Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League on Friday (September 20).
Portugal to honour Cristiano Ronaldo with special coin
According to Telecom Asia, Portugal are set to honour Cristiano Ronaldo by launching a coin in his name. As per the report, the move is a gesture of appreciation for Ronaldo's immense contribution to his nation through football.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner recently became the first male player to score 900 career goals. He's also his nation's all-time goalscorer with 132 goals. Ronaldo also led Portugal to the 2016 European Championship and the 2019 UEFA Nations League triumphs.
The report claims that the Cristiano Ronaldo coin will be a legal tender in Portugal after its launching.