Cristiano Ronaldo has reunited with his Al Nassr teammates for the first time since Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner met with the squad and new head coach Ange Postecoglou in Lisbon, though he has not yet returned to full training with the Saudi Pro League champions.
The 41-year-old forward, who joined the club in January 2023, was instrumental in helping Al Nassr secure the Saudi Pro League title last season, ending a seven-year drought. He has also maintained his form by finishing as the league’s top scorer for two consecutive campaigns.
Al Nassr concluded their pre-season training camp in Lisbon on Tuesday with a 2-0 defeat to Spanish side Almeria in their final friendly ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. While Ronaldo attended the game, he did not feature, remaining the only player yet to resume full training following the tournament.
The teams went into the break level at 0-0, but the Spanish outfit took control after halftime. Almeria opened the scoring in the 51st minute when a forward broke through on goal and beat Brazilian goalkeeper Bento. A penalty around 10 minutes later doubled their advantage.
Postecoglou fielded a mixed starting XI featuring regular starters and squad players before making several changes in the second half as Al-Nassr chased the game. Despite the adjustments, the Saudi side was unable to mount a comeback and finished the Lisbon camp on a disappointing note.
Away from the pitch, the 41-year-old is reportedly set to marry long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez this Saturday in Madeira, Portugal. Recent media speculation has also linked the couple to potential wedding plans in Mallorca, further fueling public interest in their personal lives.
Ronaldo’s return follows Portugal’s round-of-16 exit, where they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain on July 6. As he looks toward the future, the star has confirmed that 2026 will be his final World Cup, while fans continue to track his hunt for 1,000 career goals and monitor his social media activity, including recent questions regarding his engagement with posts alleging FIFA corruption.
Meanwhile, Al Nassr ended their overseas pre-season camp on a disappointing note as Almeria secured a comfortable 2-0 victory.
Toronto erupts as Ronaldo greets cheering Portugal fans
Source: Gulf News
