Cristiano Ronaldo issued a public apology following a calf injury that led to the postponement of Al Nassr's preseason tour in China. The Portuguese star, expressing sadness over the unforeseen situation, conveyed his apologies to Chinese fans, especially those in Shenzhen.
Ronaldo, known for his durability throughout his 22-year football career, expressed disappointment at being unable to contribute to the tour, emphasizing the bond he feels with China as his "second home" since 2003. Despite the setback, Ronaldo assured fans that the games were not canceled but rather postponed, with the intention to return to China.
The preseason tour cancellation occurred as Al Nassr sought to utilize the Saudi Pro League's midseason break, planning fixtures against Chinese teams before a highly anticipated match against Inter Miami in Riyadh, potentially marking a final showdown between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Al Nassr, in a statement, expressed respect for Chinese football fans and Ronaldo enthusiasts, pledging to complete their training camp in Shenzhen as planned and reschedule a new match promptly. Chinese fans, anticipating the friendly match against Shanghai Shenhua, were disappointed by the abrupt postponement less than 24 hours before kick-off.
The Al Nassr squad, including prominent names like Ronaldo, Marcelo Brozovic, Otavio, and others, were present in Shenzhen, with organizers promising full refunds for match tickets, flights, and hotels to disappointed fans.
The incident evokes memories of past cancellations, such as the 2016 Manchester United vs. Manchester City match in Beijing due to pitch concerns and Inter Miami's mainland China tour cancellation in November 2023, adding to the challenges faced by football clubs in organizing international preseason tours.
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