Ronaldo denied Al Nassr debut as game abandoned amid FIFA claim

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Cristiano Ronaldo’s hopes of making his debut for new club Al-Nassr have been pushed back after the Saudi Arabian outfit’s match against Al Ta’ee was called off. The Portuguese superstar was in line to make his first appearance after sealing his lucrative move to the Arabian Gulf last week, but he will be forced to wait after the game was postponed just hours before kick-off.

Heavy rainfall in the Saudi capital of Riyadh, where Al-Nassr are based, caused electrical problems at the club’s Victory Arena stadium and the game was later postponed.

According to Mail Online, hundreds of staff – including security, chefs and stadium staff – were kept outside out of the venue with the gates locked.

Officials said that the stadium was empty with the game due to kick off in two hours, but there was confusion as to whether the game would go ahead before Al-Nassr released a statement via social media.

“Due to heavy rain and weather conditions impacting the stadium’s electricity, we have been officially informed that tonight’s match against Al Ta’i is postponed for 24 hours,” the club tweeted via their English language account. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused to fans and wish everyone safe travels.”

Ronaldo will not have to wait long for his debut as the game has scheduled to take place on Friday, only 24 hours after it was originally due to take place. 

It comes just days after Ronaldo was presented in front of thousands of fans at the club’s stadium and paraded in front of the global media as the new unofficial ambassador for Saudi Arabian football.

The former Manchester United star has signed a two-year deal worth an eye-watering £170million-a-year, making him the highest-paid footballer in history, as Saudi chiefs hope the Portuguese star’s global appeal will put their club on the map.

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.

We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.

Source: Read Full Article