Postecoglou Defends Ronaldo Amid Heated Reporter Exchange After Al-Nassr Loss

Al-Nassr head coach Ange Postecoglou engaged in a heated exchange with a reporter who questioned the impact of Cristiano Ronaldo following the team's 4-0 loss to Al-Ain in their AFC Champions League Elite opener. The defeat marked a disappointing start for the Saudi Pro League champions in the UAE.

Ronaldo, who has scored three goals in six games for Al-Nassr, struggled to influence the match. In the post-match press conference, a reporter suggested that Ronaldo's presence in the starting lineup was not benefiting the team, describing him as not quite a 'burden' but someone who 'does not benefit the team'.

"Cristiano has scored three goals already; he had a limited preparation," Postecoglou responded, defending the veteran striker. "This is not about the players; the players are giving everything and they're top players and they've got great character. The responsibility is mine but you shouldn't say that about somebody who is still setting an example for everyone. You should be careful when you say things like that about people who have built a career on making all the sacrifices to keep playing. You can criticise me, no problem."

The exchange escalated when the reporter persisted, claiming Ronaldo had "done nothing." Postecoglou retorted, "He's done nothing? You're watching a different game to me."

Postecoglou acknowledged his own responsibility for the team's recent form, noting that they have secured only one win in their last four games after an initial five-game winning streak under his management. He also criticized the reporter's assessment of the team's preparation.

"You say we didn't prepare well, but you were there. You're not saying the truth, be honest," Postecoglou stated. "You were right, it was my responsibility. Maybe I haven't done my job well and that's fine but please don't talk about preparation."