Al-Nassr opts for 20-year-old sensation as Cristiano Ronaldo’s stand-in
In the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, who received a red card in the Saudi Super Cup clash against Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr has turned to young talent Meshari Al-Nemer, 20, to fill the striker position for the upcoming two matches.
Despite Al-Nassr’s unsuccessful appeal, Cristiano Ronaldo will miss the next two league games. Manager Luis Castro has made the call to field Al-Nemer as a replacement for the renowned Portuguese star, according to Essentially Sports.
Ronaldo’s dismissal in the 1-2 defeat to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Super Cup semifinal left a void in the Al-Nassr lineup. The altercation that led to the red card involved Ronaldo making contact with defender Ali Al-Bulayhi during a scuffle.
Formerly associated with Manchester United, Ronaldo’s absence means a significant opportunity for the emerging talent Al-Nemer to showcase his skills for the Knights of Najd.