Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo could miss the European Championships if he risks playing against Manchester City in the Champions League semi-final.
The Portuguese star's has missed Los Blancos last three games due to a hamstring injury, but reportedly he is desperate to line out in the second leg of their clash with City.
The former Manchester United player has been receiving stem cell treatment on the injury in an effort to get fit, but he's been told that if he comes back to action too soon the injury may worsen.
Paul White / AP/Press Association Images
Portugal's national team doctor, Dr Nuno Campos, told Ronaldo he would be putting himself at risk if he plays.
“If the diagnosis is really a micro-tear, recovery lasts between 18 to 21 days – it takes 12 to 14 days to fully heal and another five to seven for muscle recovery work," said Campos.
“That is to say, with these recovery times, he should be out until May 10, so he would miss the game against City and also the league game against Valencia on May 8.
“It would be less if it were a contraction – then he could play against City.
“If you do that, having a micro-tear, he risks aggravating the injury and jeopardising his participation in the Euros.
“Cristiano is not normal as he overcomes many limitations, but this is a physiological issue. It is difficult to be fit before 20 or 21 days.
“The treatment they say will do with stem cells may hasten recovery days, but few. It's complicated.”
Ronaldo has a history of entering international tournaments not fully fit, as he went into the last World Cup carrying a knee injury as Portugal crashed out at the group stage in 2014.
The 31-year-old has been in fine form for Madrid in La Liga, netting 31 times in 34 appearances.
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