Al-Nassr are in discussions to extend Cristiano Ronaldo's contract, which ends in June. The 40-year-old hinted at a possible departure after Al-Nassr's last match by posting: "This chapter is over.
The story? Still being written." Despite Al-Nassr not qualifying for the Club World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino suggested Ronaldo might still participate.
FIFA has introduced a brief transfer window for clubs in the Club World Cup, starting June 14. This allows teams to sign new players, potentially including Ronaldo. However, Fernando Hierro, Al-Nassr's sporting director, expressed the club's desire to retain Ronaldo. "We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us," Hierro stated.
Ronaldo's influence on Saudi Arabian football has been significant since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023. He has scored more Pro League goals than any other player during this period, with 74 goals from an expected tally of 67.07. His scoring rate is unmatched, averaging a goal every 90.62 minutes.
The Portuguese star won the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot for two consecutive seasons, netting 25 goals in the latest season and topping the charts with 35 goals in 2023-24. His presence has opened up Saudi football to a global audience, making it more prominent worldwide.
Several clubs have shown interest in signing Ronaldo if he decides to leave Al-Nassr. Among them are Al-Hilal, who are participating in the Club World Cup, as well as Botafogo and Wydad AC. Despite this interest, Al-Nassr remains hopeful of retaining their star player.
Ronaldo's arrival was seen as a national project aimed at elevating Saudi football on the world stage. "It's phenomenal that he had the courage to come here," said Hierro about Ronaldo's decision to join Al-Nassr and stay in Saudi Arabia.
The ongoing negotiations highlight both parties' interest in continuing their partnership beyond June. While other clubs are keen on acquiring Ronaldo's talents, Al-Nassr is determined to keep him as a central figure in their team and league promotion efforts.
