Cristiano Ronaldo Injury Update Offers Hope Ahead of Portugal’s Key Friendlies Against USMNT and Mexico

Uncertainty surrounded Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese superstar suffered a muscle injury at the end of February. However, a recent update offers hope ahead of important international friendlies. As Portugal prepares for key matches in its buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the fitness of their captain has become a major focus, especially with a high-profile game approaching against Christian Pulisic and the United States men’s national soccer team.

Ronaldo sustained the injury while playing for Al-Nassr, where he remains a pivotal figure in the club’s pursuit of the Saudi Pro League title. The 41-year-old forward immediately began treatment and rehabilitation in Spain, raising concerns about his availability for Portugal’s upcoming fixtures.

The injury occurred on February 28 during Al-Nassr’s match against Al-Fayha, when Ronaldo suffered a muscle issue in his right thigh. After the incident, he traveled to Madrid to continue recovery with his personal physiotherapist. Portuguese sports newspaper A Bola published images showing Ronaldo using a specialized recovery device designed to accelerate muscle healing.

The device—a Cryo Sport boot from the recovery technology brand AVACR7, in which Ronaldo invested in 2022—covers the entire leg and combines cryotherapy with compression therapy.

Injury More Serious Than Initially Expected

Despite early hopes that the injury was minor, Jorge Jesus, head coach of Al-Nassr, confirmed the injury was more severe than first thought. Speaking about the situation, the Portuguese manager explained why Ronaldo traveled to Spain for treatment: “Cristiano’s injury is more serious than we first thought,” Jesus said. “The injury requires treatment in Madrid with the professional who works with Cristiano. We hope he returns quickly to help the team.”

Saudi medical experts noted on X (formerly Twitter) that muscle injuries of this type can vary widely in recovery time. A mild strain may require one to three weeks, while a more serious tear can sideline a player for four to eight weeks. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano suggested Ronaldo could miss up to four weeks, raising concerns about his availability for Portugal’s international schedule.

Positive Update for Portugal

Despite the uncertainty, Ronaldo is reportedly determined to return in time to represent Portugal during the upcoming international break. According to A Bola, his goal is to join the Portugal national team’s training camp at the end of March, which would allow him to participate in preparations for Portugal’s upcoming friendlies.

This update is an encouraging sign for the Selecao’s coaching staff, who are closely monitoring their captain’s condition as they prepare for matches that are part of the team’s long-term buildup to the 2026 World Cup. If Ronaldo successfully rejoins the squad, it would significantly strengthen Roberto Martinez’s attacking options and set the stage for a potential showdown with the United States and their star winger Christian Pulisic.

Portugal is scheduled to face Mexico and the United States during the March international window. The match against the US carries particular intrigue, as it would pit Ronaldo against Pulisic, the American captain and one of the most prominent players in the country’s soccer history.