Cristiano Ronaldo`s time at Al-Nassr appears to be coming to an end, judging by his recent social media activity, though the Portuguese icon doesn`t seem ready for retirement at 40. Following the conclusion of the Saudi Pro League season, Ronaldo posted, “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Thanks to all.” He did secure the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup title with Al-Nassr, defeating Al-Hilal for his only club trophy there. However, he might not have to wait long for another opportunity at silverware with his next team.
Staying in the Saudi Pro League is one possibility, with reports suggesting Al-Hilal`s interest in his services. This raises a more significant question: could Ronaldo participate in the upcoming Club World Cup? The tournament is scheduled to kick off on June 14, featuring a match between Al Ahly and Inter Miami, making his inclusion a potential reality. Not only could clubs benefit from adding Ronaldo`s extensive experience, but the event also offers the intriguing possibility of a final showdown between Ronaldo and his long-standing rival, Lionel Messi, taking place in the United States. Opportunities for such a legendary matchup are increasingly rare, making a summer encounter highly desirable if feasible.
Will the Transfer Window Allow Ronaldo to Move?
Traditionally, the summer transfer window opens in early July. However, in light of the Club World Cup and certain player contracts expiring in June, a special `mini window` has been created from June 1 to June 10. This window allows teams participating in the CWC to bolster their squads before the tournament begins. While available to all teams, it specifically enables CWC participants to finalize deals early and potentially utilize the tournament as part of their pre-season preparations.
From a technical standpoint, a player could sign with a team during this mini window, compete in the Club World Cup, and then move to another club afterward. FIFA regulations permit a player to be registered with three clubs over the course of a season, provided they only play official matches for two. This means Ronaldo could join a CWC team, play in the competition, and subsequently transfer again if that were his preference, even if that involved returning to Al-Nassr.
Which Other Teams Might Be Interested in His Services?
Many teams competing in the Club World Cup would undoubtedly be keen to sign Ronaldo. Among the prominent contenders, Al-Hilal and Egypt`s Al Ahly stand out as potential destinations. Larger European clubs might be hesitant about a short-term deal due to concerns about team chemistry, but other clubs globally could view Ronaldo as a valuable player to enhance their chances of competing with top teams in the tournament. A move to Al-Hilal would also create a captivating narrative, potentially pitting Ronaldo against his former club, Real Madrid.
As a club owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, Al-Hilal would face no issues matching Ronaldo`s current compensation package. Al Ahly has also indicated a desire to strengthen their squad for the tournament. While they may lack the financial muscle of the Saudi clubs, the increased financial rewards from participating in the Club World Cup help them compete for players they might otherwise be unable to afford. Furthermore, a move to Al Ahly could lead to a highly anticipated opening fixture: a final, potentially `priceless` clash between Ronaldo and Messi, a prospect that seemed almost unimaginable just twelve months ago.
