As the United States get set to complete their preparations for this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup, they have two powerhouse friendlies on the schedule to test themselves against top-tier opposition.

Two highly ranked European nations have come to North America to play the U.S. as Belgium and Portugal contest matches in late March at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

The arrival of Portugal in particular brought with it a heightened level of excitement, as one of the world’s most iconic players, Cristiano Ronaldo, seemed destined to make his way to the U.S. for this international window.

Unfortunately, Ronaldo will not be part of the festivities as he is not with the national team just months before the World Cup.

MORE: A breakdown of the USMNT roster for March friendlies vs. Belgium, Portugal

Why is Cristiano Ronaldo not playing vs. USA and Mexico?

Ronaldo is not with the Portugal national team for the March international break after he suffered a hamstring injury on club duty with Al Nassr.

He was substituted during the 81st minute of Al Nassr’s 3-1 Saudi Pro League win at Al Fayha on Saturday, February 28.

A statement released by the club read: “Cristiano Ronaldo has been diagnosed with a hamstring injury after the last game against Al Fayha. “He started a rehabilitation program and will be under evaluation day by day.”

Ronaldo traveled to Spain as part of his recovery program. On March 20, he was omitted from Portugal’s squad to take on Mexico and the United States.

MORE: A full look at the Portugal national team roster for March friendlies vs. USA, Mexico

How long will Cristiano Ronaldo be out?

Having already missed two Saudi Pro League matches with his injury, Ronaldo was not quite ready to return when the March international break came around.

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez said Ronaldo would be out for “a week or two” longer when he announced the squad for his team’s Mexico and United States games.

This tracks with the club’s initial announcement, as he likely has a Grade One hamstring injury. A Grade Two strain would have left him sidelined for six to eight weeks, but he does not seem to need that long of a recovery.

Martinez moved to dismiss fears that the problem put Ronaldo’s World Cup participation in any sort of jeopardy.

“No, he’s not in danger,” he said. “It’s a minor muscle injury, and we think he can be back in a week or two. Everything Cristiano has done physically this season shows that he’s in great shape.”