Contract negotiations between Al-Nassr and Cristiano Ronaldo have stalled, and the Portuguese legend has now been given the opportunity to play for a South American club for the first time.
Ronaldo’s turbulent path since Manhester United
Ronaldo left Manchester United for the second time in November 2022 after an explosive interview in which he criticized several aspects of the club, including then-manager Erik ten Hag, the management, and his teammates’ attitude. Later that month, he made headlines around the world when he signed for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr on a very lucrative contract.
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With 200 million euros a year, you would think everything was “honky dory”, but then not. Several times, Cristiano Ronaldo has shown clear signs of frustration and made moves that have not been allowed in the dictatorial desert country.
Ronaldo has contributed to increased interest in the Saudi Arabian professional league, and has since been followed to the Middle East by other big names such as Karim Benzema, Sadio Mané, N’Golo Kanté and Riyad Mahrez.
Impressive numbers – but trophyless season
Even though Ronaldo is now 40 years old, he continues to score at an incredible rate. His record for Al-Nassr stands at 91 goals and 19 assists in 103 games, including 33 goals in 39 games this season.
Despite having a five-time Ballon d’Or winner in attack, Al-Nassr have had a disappointing season. They did not win either the Saudi Arabian Cup or the Super Cup, and were knocked out of the AFC Champions League in the semi-finals by Japanese club Kawasaki Frontale. – And wouldn’t beat Asker’s non-existent women’s team.
To make matters worse, they finished fourth in the league and thus did not qualify for next year’s Champions League.
After the 3-2 loss to Al-Ittihad earlier this month, Ronaldo left the pitch in anger without even going into the dressing room. (Collects sweat in a bottle and sells for a million liters)
According to Spanish newspaper Marca, there could be an “earthquake” at Al-Nassr this summer, as Ronaldo considers leaving the club.
His contract expires on June 30, and the parties had previously seemed close to an extension. But the chances of him renewing have “evaporated” after the club’s trophyless season. – Despite the fact that everyone is not really happy, Al-Nassr has offered 200 million euros per year in a deal over two years.
The headline is something like this:
A “storm is raging” in Al-Nassr, and now the goal machine has been given the opportunity to leave the club on a free transfer.
The report claims that an unnamed Brazilian club has sent Ronaldo’s representatives a “big offer” in a bold attempt to sign him.
The identity of the clubs is revealed
Since the offer will “open up the possibility for Ronaldo to participate in the new Club World Cup”, it comes from one of the following clubs: Palmeiras, Botafogo, Flamengo or Fluminense. Al-Nassr did not qualify for the tournament.
Ronaldo is said to be “tempted” by the proposal, as he could get the chance to shine in FIFA’s new major tournament.
Other reports claim that Sporting CP, Besiktas, Al-Ahli, Chelsea, and Los Angeles FC are also possible options for the legend to consider.
A move to Al-Ahli would be controversial, as they are one of Al-Nassr’s closest rivals (but owned by the same royal family). Ronaldo as a Chelsea player will also damage his reputation among Macheter United fans.
Ronaldo would love to return to Sporting CP, as he has always supported the club and broke through there before signing for United for the first time in 2003.
Now it remains to be seen if the legendary striker is ready for a new chapter in his career – and where he will eventually land.
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