Alnassr

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr are reportedly arranging a private jet to fly Portuguese forward João Félix back to Saudi Arabia immediately after his international assignment, in a move aimed at ensuring his availability for their crucial encounter with Al-Ahli.

Saudi newspaper Al-Youm reported on Tuesday that the club’s management were making arrangements for a special flight to transport the forward to Jeddah following Portugal’s international fixture against Wales.

The plan is intended to minimise his travel time and avoid possible delays associated with commercial flights, giving him a better opportunity to feature in the highly anticipated league fixture.

Félix has established himself as an important member of Al-Nassr’s attacking unit since joining the club. His creativity and attacking contributions have made him one of the players relied upon by the coaching staff to unlock opposing defences.

However, his return on a private jet does not automatically guarantee his inclusion in the matchday squad. The technical team will first assess his fitness and physical condition after his international commitments and journey before deciding whether he is ready to play.

The proposed arrangement underlines Al-Nassr’s determination to have the Portuguese forward available for the high-profile meeting despite the demands of the international calendar.

The Saudi Pro League Matchweek Nine encounter between Al-Ahli and Al-Nassr is scheduled for Friday, November 20, 2026, at Alinma Stadium, King Abdullah Sports City, in Jeddah.

Kick-off is set for 8:30 pm Saudi time, corresponding to 6:30 pm Nigerian time.

The November FIFA international window runs from November 9 to 17, with national teams expected to play up to two matches during the period.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that the 2026/27 season could be his final campaign as a professional footballer.

The 41-year-old Portugal captain and Al-Nassr forward made the disclosure in an interview with lifestyle magazine Vogue, published on Sunday.

Ronaldo, who began his senior career with Sporting Lisbon in 2002, said he hopes to bring his football career to an end with a lasting legacy.

“This is probably my last year of football and I want to leave a spectacular legacy,” he said.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also spoke about his plans for life after football, saying he already has several activities that could keep him occupied.

“I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one.

“And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I’ve earned — what we’ve earned. Because, after all, it’s been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice.”

Ronaldo has won domestic league titles in England, Spain, Italy and Saudi Arabia. He also holds the record as the highest-scoring player in men’s international football.

The Portuguese star has scored 976 goals for club and country, leaving him 24 goals away from reaching the 1,000-goal landmark.

He has one year remaining on his contract with Saudi Pro League champions Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo was absent from Al-Nassr’s opening league match of their title defence against Al Fateh on Saturday. He watched the game from the stands alongside members of his family.

The development comes only days after his wedding to his long-time partner, Georgina Rodriguez.