In a significant letdown for Indian football enthusiasts, reports indicate that Cristiano Ronaldo will not be making the trip to India for Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League 2 match against FC Goa, despite requests from the Indian club. The development coincides with Lionel Messi and his World Cup-winning Argentina team’s scheduled visit to India for a friendly against Australia this year, depriving fans of the opportunity to witness both global icons in action on Indian turf.
As per Saudi outlet Al Riyadhiah, the 40-year-old Portuguese star has decided not to join Al-Nassr’s squad for the Group D fixture at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on October 22. FC Goa’s management had urged Al-Nassr to include Ronaldo in the squad, hoping that his participation would enhance the match’s appeal and draw significant local interest.
Al-Nassr is expected to arrive in Goa late on Monday for their third group-stage match in the tournament. Despite Ronaldo’s absence, the Saudi club has won both their previous AFC Champions League 2 games and is in a strong position to progress to the knockout stages.
Sources indicate that Ronaldo’s contract permits him to skip matches outside Saudi Arabia to effectively manage his workload. Prioritizing his fitness for the upcoming World Cup, the seasoned forward has opted against undertaking the lengthy journey to India.
Amid speculation surrounding his potential visit, Ronaldo’s name was reportedly included in Al-Nassr’s visa application list submitted to Indian authorities. FC Goa CEO Ravi Puskur stated that the situation lacks clarity at present, with Ronaldo’s team exploring options and expected to make a decision closer to the event. Despite the excitement generated by the pairing of FC Goa and Al-Nassr in the same group, Ronaldo’s absence is a significant setback, especially given the heightened anticipation surrounding Messi’s upcoming visit to India.
While Ronaldo will not be present, the Fatorda fixture still holds historical significance for Indian football, with an ISL club hosting one of Asia’s most prominent teams in a continental competition. Following the match, Al-Nassr will head back to prepare for their King’s Cup Round of 16 encounter against Al-Ittihad on October 28.