The French coach is rumoured to be leaving his role as manager of the national team

Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has provided clarity on the absence of his two biggest stars following his side's comprehensive 5-0 victory over Al Khaleej. Despite the dominant performance, questions loomed regarding the fitness of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, neither of whom featured in the matchday squad as they deal with minor fitness concerns.

Al-Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has confirmed that Cristiano Ronaldo is facing a prolonged spell on the sidelines following a significant muscular setback. The Portuguese icon has travelled to Madrid to undergo specialist rehabilitation as concerns grow over his availability for both club and country during a pivotal period of the season.

Jorge Jesus admits that Al-Hilal have “more economic power” than Al-Nassr, having seen Cristiano Ronaldo go on strike amid questions of how wealth is distributed among clubs controlled by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). The agitated Portuguese GOAT is playing again, with his manager in Riyadh appreciating why frustration has boiled over.

Jorge Jesus has reportedly sent an ultimatum to Al-Nassr’s board, with the Portuguese coach making it clear that his future in the Saudi Pro League is directly tied to that of fellow countryman Cristiano Ronaldo. CR7 has taken to going on strike of late, as grievances in the Middle East are aired, and there is an exit clause in his contract that can be triggered in the summer transfer window.