Courtesy: Google
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future at Al-Nassr appears increasingly uncertain following a turbulent season for the Saudi club. Despite an impressive personal campaign, scoring 33 goals in 39 appearances, Al Nassr failed to win any major silverware and missed out on AFC Champions League qualification. The club’s recent defeat to Al-Ittihad and a semi-final exit from continental competition reportedly strained Ronaldo's relationship with the management, particularly after his visible frustration and storming off the pitch. As his contract nears expiration this summer, speculation about a potential move away is mounting, with talks of an extension currently paused.
Reports suggest that rival Saudi clubs, particularly Al Hilal, are monitoring Ronaldo’s situation closely. However, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al-Nassr and several other Pro League clubs, is reportedly determined to retain Ronaldo within the country’s top flight. The PIF sees Ronaldo as a central figure in its strategy to elevate the global profile of the Saudi Pro League. Even if he departs Al-Nassr, efforts may be made to transfer him to another club within the Kingdom, preserving his influence and marketability within the local football ecosystem.
Sporting CP looking to bring back Ronaldo for historic homecoming
While the Saudi Pro League is eager to hold on to Ronaldo, interest is also growing in Europe. Sporting CP, Ronaldo’s boyhood club in Portugal, is reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing the veteran forward back to Lisbon. The move could be contingent on the departure of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres, who is coming off a stellar season with 52 goals and 15 assists.
Gyokeres is a target for top Premier League sides such as Arsenal and Manchester United, and should he leave, Sporting may turn to Ronaldo to fill the void while also creating a feel-good story of a homecoming. In the coming weeks, much will depend on club negotiations and the outcome of other key player transfers, and Ronaldo’s own desire on whether to continue his Middle East chapter or write a new one back in Europe.
