The Saudi Pro League returns this week with three eighth-round fixtures, ending a break of almost a month since the seventh round wrapped up on September 13. The pause made room for the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup, which Saudi Arabia won.

Third-placed Al Nassr host Al Diriyah at Al Awwal Park in Riyadh, with attention firmly on captain Cristiano Ronaldo after his departure from Portugal's training camp during the break sparked widespread debate. Nassr coach Ange Postecoglou moved to settle the matter. "Ronaldo is back, and he is ready to play," the Australian said. He declined to discuss events with the national team, saying he had coached national sides for four years and does not like club managers commenting on international coaches.

Nassr are looking to restore confidence after a 1-1 draw with Al Khaleej and a 4-0 defeat to UAE side Al Ain in the opening round of the AFC Champions League Elite. A win would lift them to the top of the table, at least until Saturday's clash between leaders Al Hilal, on 18 points, and second-placed Al Ittihad, on 17.

Diriyah, coached by Portugal's Bruno Lage, sit eighth with 11 points and have strengthened their squad with Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez, on loan from Al Hilal.

In Al Ahsa, struggling Al Fateh, 15th with three points, welcome sixth-placed Al Ahli, who have 12. The hosts face the game amid reports that coach Khaled Al Atawi could be replaced. Ahli return to domestic action after losing the Intercontinental Cup to South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns.

In Al Rass, seventh-placed Al Kholood, on 12 points, host fourth-placed Al Qadsiah. Brendan Rodgers' side have 16 points and are looking to bounce back from a 3-3 draw with Al Ettifaq.