Al-Nassr has provided an explanation for Cristiano Ronaldo’s alleged indecent gesture, which resulted in calls for his expulsion from Saudi Arabia.
The Portugal international, Ronaldo, made headlines once again during and after his team’s 2-0 defeat to Al-Hilal on Tuesday.
He received a booking for a tackle resembling moves from WWE, and in response to chants from home supporters mentioning Lionel Messi, he made an obscene gesture by grabbing his crotch in their direction.
Some Al-Hilal fans are calling for the expulsion of Ronaldo from Saudi Arabia.
This gesture has caused offense throughout the country, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, and a trend has emerged online calling for Ronaldo’s expulsion under the title “Expelling the fan’s abuser.”
The club has axed Rudi Garcia following his conflict with Ronaldo and now has tried to minimize the significance of Ronaldo’s gesture, attributing it to a “sensitive” injury in the groin area instead.
The club’s board provided clarification on the incident to journalist Muhammed Al-Enezi in a statement issued on Wednesday.
The statement reads: “Ronaldo suffers from an injury. His challenge with Gustavo Cuellar, the Al-Hilal player, started with a blow in a very sensitive area. The Information is confirmed. As for the fans’ explanations, they are free to think whatever they want.”
Ronaldo has previously reacted to taunts from opposing fans about his Argentine rival on multiple occasions, including Tuesday’s incident.
However, this reaction is also indicative of his frustration due to Al-Nassr’s recent drop in points, as they have lost their grip on the Saudi Pro League title race and are currently three points behind leaders Al-Ittihad, who have a game in hand.
The Portugal captain will lead his team against Al-Wehda at home in their King Cup semi-final on April 24.
