While Al-Nassr missed the cut for the 2025 Club World Cup, there’s still a glimmer of hope for Cristiano Ronaldo to make an appearance in the highly-anticipated competition. His perennial rival, Lionel Messi, will undoubtedly steal some headlines this summer, as Inter Miami secured their spot in the tournament after clinching the Supporters’ Shield last season.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino is eager to have the biggest names in football at this prestigious event, creating a narrow path for Ronaldo to participate—but how could that happen?
Ronaldo’s Contract Situation
In light of another season without silverware for the football legend in Saudi Arabia, the question of his future at Al-Nassr is anything but settled. The 40-year-old forward has been mulling over a contract renewal for several months, but progress has stalled recently.
Reports from Marca reveal that negotiations initially began in January, with a proposed two-year deal on the table. This deal, which could extend until 2028, would see Ronaldo playing at 43, a scenario that seems both remarkable and daunting.
Yet, after Al-Nassr’s failure in the AFC Champions League and mixed performances in the league, Ronaldo is beginning to reconsider his options. His current contract runs through the end of June, but with uncertainty lingering, a departure before that date isn’t off the table.
Club World Cup Transfer Window
The Club World Cup kicks off on June 15, with Al Ahly facing off against Inter Miami in the opening match. Ordinarily, the summer transfer window opens in mid-June, but this year is different. To accommodate teams participating in the tournament, a mini transfer window is being introduced from June 1 to June 10, allowing clubs one last chance to strengthen their squads.
Players like Ronaldo could shift teams before the tournament if interest arises. For instance, there are already whispers about Real Madrid eyeing Trent Alexander-Arnold to bolster their lineup.
Who Could Sign Ronaldo?
As it stands, Ronaldo’s camp hasn’t opened discussions with any clubs outside of Al-Nassr, but his contract situation has certainly caught the attention of potential suitors. Some clubs may feel tempted to offer him a short-term deal for the World Cup, a move that would bring buzz and excitement.
There have been recurring mentions of a dreamy return to Real Madrid, yet that feels less likely as time passes. Before his move to Al-Nassr, Chelsea was a front-runner in the rumor mill, and those discussions have reignited lately. However, former Chelsea winger Florent Malouda cautions that integrating Ronaldo into the current squad could be tricky. He noted, “When the new owners came in, they weighed the option of signing him, but it would likely be more a marketing strategy than a fit for team dynamics.”
Another intriguing possibility is a return to Sporting Lisbon when Ronaldo’s contract expires in Saudi Arabia. Yet, since Sporting didn’t qualify for the Club World Cup, this scenario wouldn’t allow him to play in the tournament.
At this juncture, it still appears unlikely that Ronaldo will step onto the pitch for the Club World Cup this summer. However, given the fluid nature of his contract situation, you never know—anything is possible. Keep an eye on this developing story.
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