Ange Postecoglou has opened the door for a surprise Cristiano Ronaldo return in Al Nassr's opening match of the Saudi Pro League season, saying the Portugal legend is "always ready."
The reigning champions begin their title defence against Al Fateh on Saturday at 7 p.m. BST, 2 p.m. ET, and Postecoglou is preparing for his first match as manager.
His squad had a big boost this week with the return of the 41-year-old, who was back in training following his wedding to Georgina Rodriguez.
When asked if Ronaldo may feature in the opening game of the season, Postecoglou said in a news conference, per Arshaq Al-Awsat: "Ronaldo is always ready."
Ronaldo was sporting a new haircut upon his return as he prepares for his 25th senior season.
In a video of his welcome back to training by Postecoglou, the Australian said: "Welcome Cris and congratulations; blessings to you and your family mate."
The Portuguese is chasing down something that no other player has done before: scoring 1,000 career goals.
Ronaldo has 976 goals across his club and international career in 1,326 games.
Last season, Ronaldo finished as the third-top goal scorer in the Saudi Pro League with 28 goals.
Postecoglou was appointed as Jorge Jesus's replacement at Al-Nassr on July 3 and has signed a two-year contract.
- Ronaldo confirms marriage to Georgina Rodríguez
- Ronaldo watches as his club play the club he owns
He has the challenge of trying to defend their title, which they won on the last day of the season, holding off Al-Hilal to win the league by two points.
The former Tottenham and Nottingham Forest manager believes his squad are well set for the upcoming season but is aware of the potential challenges his team may face.
"My role is to deal with the players currently here, and they are all present in the team," Postecoglou said.
"The competition between them is good, and everyone is putting in good performances.
"When we spoke about the challenges, we were aware that there were different circumstances and challenges, but whatever the circumstances, we have to deal with them and prepare well."