The drama in the Saudi Pro League is heating up, but for Al-Nassr, the race for the top spots has hit a bit of a snag.
With Cristiano Ronaldo sidelined, Al-Nassr could only manage a 1-1 draw against Al-Taawoun last Friday, leaving their hopes of finishing higher than third this season out of reach.
Ronaldo Sits Out Again as Al-Nassr Misses Champions League Elite Qualification
Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t feature in that draw, nor did he play in the massive 9-0 victory over Al-Okhdood earlier in the week, as the team opted to rest him.
Unfortunately, that draw meant Al-Nassr are now locked in fourth place, which isn’t enough to qualify for next season’s AFC Champions League Elite — Asia’s premier club competition.
Who Will Represent Saudi Arabia in Asia’s Top Tournament Next Season
Instead, the Saudi representatives in the AFC Champions League Elite next season will be Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli.
Al-Ittihad are already confirmed champions of the league, and Al-Hilal looks set to finish second.
Al-Ahli secured their spot by winning this season’s AFC Champions League title after beating Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale — the same team that knocked Al-Nassr out in the semi-finals.
Ronaldo’s Impressive Scoring in the AFC Champions League
Even though Al-Nassr missed out on the Elite competition, Ronaldo’s personal form in the AFC Champions League was impressive.
He scored eight goals, only surpassed by a few players like Salem Al-Dawsari, Jasir Asani, and Al-Ahli’s Riyad Mahrez.
His impact on the continental stage remains undeniable.
Possible Route to AFC Champions League Two and What’s Next for Al-Nassr
There’s still a glimmer of hope for Al-Nassr to enter the AFC Champions League Two — the equivalent of Europe’s Europa League — but it depends on a few things.
If they finish third in the league and Al-Ittihad beat Al-Qadsiah in the King’s Cup final, Al-Nassr could secure a spot in this secondary competition.
Ronaldo’s Golden Boot Race and His Struggles for a League Title
Despite not lifting the league trophy, Ronaldo is leading the race for the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot this season.
With 23 goals so far and just two games left, he’s ahead of Karim Benzema, Abderrazak Hamdallah, and Ivan Toney.
However, the league title has eluded him in Saudi Arabia so far, adding to his previous near-misses since joining in early 2023.
Ronaldo’s Achievements and Possible Departure Looming This Summer
The only major team honor Ronaldo has won in Saudi Arabia is the Arab Club Champions Cup — a tournament featuring top clubs from across the Arab world.
But with his contract set to expire next month, his future at Al-Nassr remains uncertain.
The club wants to keep him, but a move to another Saudi team is also being discussed.
Ronaldo’s Earnings, Career Goals, and What Lies Ahead
Ronaldo reportedly earns a staggering £164 million per year at Al-Nassr, a free transfer signing after Manchester United terminated his contract in late 2022.
Before leaving, he’ll likely aim to reach 100 goals for the Riyadh club — currently standing at 97 in 109 games.
Overall, he boasts 798 club goals and a jaw-dropping 934 career goals including his international record.
What’s Left in the Season for Al-Nassr
Al-Nassr’s remaining two fixtures are crucial, with a home game against Al-Khaleej this Wednesday, followed by a trip to Al Fateh five days later.
While the title may be out of reach, those matches will be key for Ronaldo and his team as they look to finish strong.