Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing? Projected lineups Al-Nassr vs Al-Najma in the Saudi Pro League

All eyes in the Saudi Pro League are on Cristiano Ronaldo, as speculation builds around his involvement ahead of the clash between Al-Nassr and Al-Najma. The league leader sits at the top of the table with 67 points, while the visitor remains rooted at the bottom, setting up a dramatic mismatch on paper. The question of whether Ronaldo will feature adds intrigue to what is already a pivotal fixture.

Under manager Jorge Jesus, Al-Nassr has been in sensational form, recording 22 wins, one draw, and just three defeats this season. The club has also scored 71 goals while conceding only 19, underlining both attacking strength and defensive solidity. The team is currently on a remarkable winning streak, with recent performances including a dominant 5-0 victory over Al-Khaleej.

In stark contrast, Al-Najma continues to struggle under the pressure of the league. The club sits 18th with only eight points, having recorded just one lone win, five draws, and as many as 20 defeats this season. Its defensive record, with 61 goals conceded, remains a major concern.

To make matters worse, the team’s away form has been especially poor, with no wins on the road, making the trip to Riyadh even more daunting. Historically, this matchup has been heavily one-sided. In their previous meeting, Jorge Jesus’ players secured a dominant 5-0 victory, reinforcing their superiority in this fixture. Overall, Al-Nassr has won 11 of the 14 encounters, with no draws recorded.

Will Cristiano Ronaldo play?

Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to full training after a spell on the sidelines due to injury and a brief controversy-related absence. In fact, the Portuguese star has completed rehabilitation and is expected to start, boosting Al-Nassr ahead of a critical run-in. His return also strengthens his push in the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot race, where he sits behind Ivan Toney and Julian Quinones.

The Portuguese superstar remains central not just to Al-Nassr but also to Portugal’s plans for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. At 41, he continues to perform at an elite level, with his leadership and experience still vital on and off the pitch.

Al-Nassr vs Al-Najma: Projected lineups

Al-Nassr projected XI (4-2-3-1): Bento; Al-Najdi, Simakan, Al-Amri, Sultan; Brozovic, Al-Khaibari; Mane, Ghareeb, Angelo; Ronaldo.

Al-Najma projected XI (5-4-1): Braga; Dawran, Al Hawsawi, Al Harabi, Samir, Al Subai; Boutobba, Emad, Guga, Lazaro; Cardoso.