Adversity seems to have become a way of life for Al Nassr. With just four games remaining, the Knights of the Najd are looking to get the best of their interest. However, in their final push to end the 2023-24 season on a high note, Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates have encountered a significant setback, with their star player Aymeric Laporte reportedly receiving a three-match suspension.

The punishment comes at the heels of a red card he received during the opening leg of the AFC Champions League quarter-final against Al Ain, where the UAE side emerged victorious with a narrow win. It led the former Manchester City man to miss Leg 2 where even after Luis Castro’s side clinched a 4-2 victory to level the aggregate score, they lost 1-3 on penalties. Yet, according to the reports from the X account, @Fieldleague1, Laporte is expected to miss the upcoming games. 

This would mean that he will miss the next three Saudi Pro League clashes, including two home fixtures against Al Akhdoud (May 9), and Al Hilal (May 17), and one away clash against Al Riyadh. The defender can make a return against the final league clash against formidable rivals Al Ittihad at Al Awaal Park on May 27. Additional good news is that he will also be at Luis Castro’s disposal for the King Cup of Champions final against Al Hilal. 

Yet, his absence in the next three matches comes out to be a major blow for Al Nassr. Notably, Laporte isn’t alone as Luis Castro would not be able to make his way into the dugout for the next match. 

Luis Castro is still unavailable to lead Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr from the bench

According to reports, Al Nassr will once again be without their Portuguese manager for the upcoming away game against Al Akhdoud. However, the reason is not related to illness; travel restrictions stemming from his recent health issue will prevent Castro from attending the next match. The former Shakhtar Donetsk manager underwent a minor lung surgery in mid-April after experiencing respiratory issues.

While Luis Castro chooses to oversee home games, the responsibility of managing the team during away fixtures falls upon Vitor Severino, the club’s first assistant coach. Nevertheless, let’s hope that the Yellow and Blue are able to keep up with their unwavering focus and determination. Yet, beyond Castro’s absence, the team’s ability to cope with the purported absence of Aymeric Laporte remains a point of interest.

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