Cristiano Ronaldo Hints at Al Nassr Exit Amid Club World Cup Speculation

RIYADH— Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at a possible departure from Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr following the conclusion of the Saudi Pro League season, sparking fresh speculation over his next move as the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup approaches.

The 40-year-old football icon shared a cryptic message on social media Sunday, posting a photo of himself in Al Nassr colors with the caption: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.”

Ronaldo’s contract with the Riyadh-based club is set to expire this summer, and while no official confirmation has been made regarding his future, the post strongly suggests he may not return for another season in Saudi Arabia.

Since joining Al Nassr in December 2022 after parting ways with Manchester United, Ronaldo has played a pivotal role at the club. He concluded the 2024–25 season as the Saudi Pro League’s top scorer with 24 goals. Despite his individual success, Al Nassr finished third in the league and fell short in the AFC Champions League semi-finals, losing to Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale.

Ronaldo’s potential exit comes at a time when global football attention is shifting to the inaugural 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, kicking off in the United States on June 14. Although Al Nassr did not qualify, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hinted that Ronaldo could still feature in the tournament — possibly with another participating team.

“There are discussions with some clubs, so if any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup… who knows, who knows,” Infantino said during an interview with American content creator IShowSpeed.

Adding to the intrigue is the confirmed participation of Ronaldo’s long-time rival, Lionel Messi, who will represent Inter Miami in the tournament. A potential reunion on football’s global stage could reignite one of the sport’s most storied rivalries.

Ronaldo had previously suggested he might retire at Al Nassr, but his latest message signals that his journey may yet continue elsewhere. The special Club World Cup transfer window opens June 1 and runs through June 10, offering participating clubs a narrow window to secure last-minute reinforcements — including possibly one of the greatest players of all time.

For now, fans and clubs alike await clarity on the next chapter in Ronaldo’s legendary career.