Despite suggesting his chapter at Al-Nassr has concluded via a social media post, Cristiano Ronaldo, approaching 40, doesn`t appear to be contemplating retirement just yet. At the close of the Saudi Pro League season, Ronaldo posted, “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Thanks to all.” He successfully secured the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup with Al-Nassr by defeating Al-Hilal, marking his sole club trophy with the team. However, he might not have to wait long for another trophy opportunity at his next destination.
Continuing his career in the Saudi Pro League remains a possibility, with Al-Hilal reportedly interested in acquiring his services. This leads to the more significant question of whether Ronaldo could participate in the upcoming Club World Cup. The tournament is set to commence on June 14 with Al Ahly facing Inter Miami, making his involvement certainly feasible. Not only would clubs benefit from signing a player with Ronaldo`s vast experience across various tournaments, but his participation could also set the stage for what might be a final showdown in the United States against his greatest rival, Lionel Messi. Opportunities for such a legendary matchup are increasingly rare, so if a chance presents itself this summer, there is compelling reason to pursue it.
Will the Transfer Window Allow Ronaldo to Move?
Historically, the traditional summer transfer window opens at the start of July. However, influenced by the FIFA Club World Cup schedule and players whose contracts expire after June, a special “mini window” has been established from June 1 to June 10. This period permits teams competing in the CWC to strengthen their rosters specifically for the tournament. While available to all participating teams, this window allows sides to conduct their transfer business early and integrate the competition into their preseason preparations.
Technically, a player could transfer to a team during this mini window, compete in the Club World Cup, and then move to another club afterward. This is permissible because a player is allowed to be registered for up to three clubs over the course of a season, although they can only play official matches for two. Therefore, Ronaldo could sign with a CWC team and subsequently move after the tournament concludes, even if that move involves extending his stay with Al Nassr or joining a new side.
What Other Teams Would Be Interested in His Services?
Many clubs participating in the Club World Cup would undoubtedly welcome Ronaldo to their ranks, but major contenders could include Al-Hilal and Egyptian side Al Ahly. While larger European clubs might be hesitant about short-term agreements due to concerns about team cohesion, other teams globally could view Ronaldo as a valuable temporary asset to enhance their chances against top-tier competition in the tournament. A move to Al-Hilal would also add a fascinating element, potentially pitting Ronaldo against his former club, Real Madrid.
Furthermore, being owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, a club like Al-Hilal would face no difficulties in ensuring Ronaldo`s compensation is comparable to his current earnings. Al Ahly has also expressed interest in bolstering their squad before the tournament. While they may not possess the financial muscle of the Saudi Arabian clubs, the increased financial rewards from the CWC could enable teams like Al Ahly to compete for players they might not traditionally be able to afford. This scenario could also lead to an incredibly exciting opening match for the tournament: a final confrontation between Ronaldo and Messi. An event of such magnitude would be priceless and seemed almost unimaginable just a year ago, potentially occurring if Al Ahly were to face Inter Miami.
