Ange Postecoglou Defends Cristiano Ronaldo After Al-Nassr's Defeat
Ange Postecoglou launched a fierce defence of Cristiano Ronaldo after Al-Nassr’s AFC Champions League Elite campaign opened with a brutal reality check in the United Arab Emirates.
The Saudi Pro League champions were dismantled 4-0 by Al-Ain on Tuesday, a result that ripped through the optimism built by their strong start to the season and left tempers fraying in the aftermath.
Ronaldo, with three goals in six games so far this term, never found his rhythm on a grim night for Al-Nassr and quickly became the lightning rod for criticism in the post-match press conference.
Flashpoint in the press room
According to English outlet the Daily Mail, a Saudi reporter directly challenged Ronaldo’s place in the starting XI, suggesting the veteran forward was holding the team back. The journalist argued that while Ronaldo was not a complete burden, he “does not benefit the team”.
That was the trigger.
Postecoglou snapped back, immediately shifting the spotlight away from his captain and onto himself.
“Cristiano has already scored three goals. His preparation period was limited. It is not about the players. The players are giving their all and they are top-class players with wonderful character,” he said, making it clear he would not entertain the idea that Ronaldo was the problem.
The Al-Nassr boss doubled down, taking full responsibility for the collapse while drawing a line around his dressing room.
“The responsibility falls on me, but you should not say that about someone who is still a role model for everyone,” he continued, defending not just Ronaldo’s contribution but his status in the game.
Postecoglou then turned the conversation towards respect and legacy.
“You have to be careful when you say things like this about people who have built their career on making every sacrifice to keep playing,” he warned. “You can criticise me, no problem.”
The reporter refused to back off, insisting Ronaldo had not done “anything” in the match. Postecoglou’s response was instant and cutting.
“He did not do anything? You are watching a different match to me,” he fired back, ending the exchange with a clear message: he will protect his captain, even on nights when everything falls apart on the pitch.
A heavy defeat, a bruised start to Asia’s elite competition, and a manager standing firmly between his star and the storm. The result raises questions about Al-Nassr’s campaign—but not, in Postecoglou’s eyes, about Cristiano Ronaldo.
