Why Will Cristiano Ronaldo Have to Wait Longer Before Playing Again?
Cristiano Ronaldo's unexpected retirement from Portugal's national team has already sparked plenty of debate. Now, fans hoping to see him back on the pitch will have to wait a little longer, although the latest delay has nothing to do with the striker himself.
Cristiano Ronaldo was expected to return to club action with Al Nassr against Al-Hazm in Matchweek 13 of the Saudi Pro League.
That fixture, however, has been postponed following a decision affecting the entire round of matches.
The scheduling change comes shortly after Ronaldo announced his retirement from international football, ending his long career with Portugal.
With the Al-Hazm match no longer going ahead as originally planned, Al Nassr's next scheduled game is against Al-Qadisiya on Friday, November 20.
Why Has the Saudi Pro League Postponed Matchweek 13?
The Saudi Pro League confirmed that Matchweek 13 of the 2026-27 season will be rescheduled following the postponement of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
According to the league's official statement, the revised Asian Cup dates have created an opportunity to review the domestic fixture calendar.
The aim is to spread matches more evenly across the remainder of the season while allowing players sufficient time for rest and recovery.
The SPL will also organize a workshop with clubs to discuss potential adjustments and gather feedback before finalizing the revised schedule.
New dates for Matchweek 13 have not yet been confirmed.
Al Nassr's Emotional Message After Ronaldo's Portugal Retirement
While supporters await his return to club football, Al Nassr have paid tribute to Ronaldo following his decision to retire from the Portuguese national team.
"It's not just a chapter: it's history you've made. You're an icon for the whole world, not just Portugal. Portugal is in your heart, and you are in the hearts of the world. One page has turned, but there's still history to write together at your home, Al Nassr," the Saudi club said.
Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in 2022, and the club's message emphasized that his story in Saudi Arabia is far from over.
The Saudi Pro League also marked his international retirement, sharing three images of the Portuguese star alongside a short tribute:
"An era comes to an end. A legacy that will last forever."
Three Things to Know About Cristiano Ronaldo's Return
- Matchweek 13 postponed: Al Nassr's scheduled meeting with Al-Hazm will not take place on its original date.
- Asian Cup calendar changes: The Saudi Pro League is reviewing its schedule following the postponement of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
- Next scheduled match: Ronaldo is expected to return to action against Al-Qadisiya on Friday, November 20.
