Cristiano Ronaldo's Future at Al-Nassr in Jeopardy as Al-Hilal Eyes Summer Move
The potential transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo to Al-Hilal could shake the dynamics of Saudi football, as tensions rise between rival clubs concerning his immediate future.
Al-Nassr is concerned they may lose Cristiano Ronaldo to their chief opponents, Al-Hilal, as the Public Investment Fund (PIF) pushes for him to switch allegiances ahead of the Club World Cup.
Ronaldo alluded to a potential move earlier this week, as his contract with Al-Nassr is set to expire at the end of June. Concurrently, FIFA President Gianni Infantino mentioned that clubs participating in the first edition of the new Club World Cup are eager to secure the 40-year-old’s services for the tournament.
According to reports, Al-Hilal is looking at signing Ronaldo, which could create friction within the Saudi Pro League. Both clubs are backed by the PIF, alongside Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli, but Al-Nassr would likely react with frustration if they were to lose their star player, ensuring Al-Hilal presents a strong performance in the US this summer.
Sources close to Al-Nassr have already expressed their discontent with what they perceive to be pressure from ownership for Ronaldo to leave the team he joined in January 2023 amidst much publicity.
There remains the possibility that Ronaldo might only sign with Al-Hilal temporarily for the Club World Cup, after which he could renew his contract with Al-Nassr. Optimism remains within Al-Awwal Park about extending a contract reportedly exceeding $150 million a year, as he is a beloved figure and currently the Pro League’s leading scorer with 25 goals.
Ronaldo’s enigmatic post on Tuesday did not entirely negate the possibility of a return to Riyadh, noting: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Thanks to all.”
Also, reports indicate that Al-Hilal aims to enhance their squad for the Club World Cup, with Inter’s Simone Inzaghi being targeted for their coaching position following the dismissal of Jorge Jesus. They are also interested in recruiting Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United, with an offer close to $100 million a year.
Al-Hilal’s campaign kicks off on June 18 against Real Madrid in Miami, with further matches against Red Bull Salzburg and Pachuca.
