Author: Soorya G
Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to Saudi Arabia to play for his club, Al Nassr, after being ruled ineligible to play against Luxembourg in the European Championship qualifiers. The veteran received a yellow card in his previous international match against Slovakia. Ronaldo played almost the entire match against the Slovaks, but couldn’t get on the scoreboard. Even so, Roberto Mancini’s side came away with the three points after a fantastic goal from Bruno Fernandes. Fernandes advanced after a pass from Milan Skriniar, giving him time and space, before unleashing a powerful shot into Dubravka’s far corner.
The former Real Madrid star was a little lucky not to see red in the game against Slovakia, as he made a clumsy challenge on his former teammate, Martin Dubravka. Ronaldo only received one caution, but the yellow card was more than enough to put him out of action for the game against Luxemburgo. Instead of serving his suspension on the bench, Ronaldo opted to return to Al Nassr and left the Portuguese team.
Striker Gonçalo Ramos, who recently joined Paris Saint Germain from Benfica, was full of praise for his senior player, calling him a pillar of support in the Portuguese dressing room. The No9 also confirmed Ronaldo’s departure and said that the star’s work ethic and hunger were things he wished he had.
“Cristiano Ronaldo always gives great support, he’s been with the team until today [domingo] supporting us and helping in any way he can, but right now he’s gone back to his club.” said Ramos.
However, Ronaldo’s departure won’t be a huge blow, considering that the Portuguese are on course to qualify, having won each of their five matches so far.