Cristiano Ronaldo’s hamstring injury ‘more serious’ than expected

Cristiano Ronaldo will leave Saudi Arabia and travel to Spain for treatment on a hamstring injury that Al Nassr coach Jorge Jesus has said is more serious than first thought.

Portugal captain Ronaldo, 41, limped out of Al Nassr’s 3-1 Saudi Pro League victory over Al Fayha last weekend.

Jesus gave an update in his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s game at home to Neom Sports Club and said that Ronaldo was due to return to Madrid.

“In the last game, Cristiano left with a muscle injury,” he said.

“After the tests he underwent, it became clear that it is a more serious injury than we were expecting. He will need rest and recovery. Cristiano will travel to Spain for treatment, as will other players who were injured.

“He will need treatment from his personal physiotherapist. We hope he will return soon to help the team.”

The injury will put into question Ronaldo’s availability for Portugal’s friendlies later this month as they ramp up preparations for this summer’s World Cup.

Portugal will play Mexico at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on March 28 before facing the United States in Atlanta on April 1.

Ronaldo has scored 21 goals in 22 league games this season for Al Nassr.