The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s latest deal meant that he would play on until at least the age of 42. However, not even a year has passed since that day, and the Portuguese superstar is already contemplating a move away from the Arabian nation.
According to a report published in the news outlet ‘Record’, Ronaldo is unhappy at Al Nassr and could leave the club in June over the club’s lack of transfer activity. He reportedly has a ‘secret’ release clause (50 million euros) written in his contract, which could see him leave the Saudi Pro League club this summer. The MLS and a return to Europe are emerging as possible destinations.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is unhappy with the treatment given to Al Nassr by the Saudi Sovereign Wealth Fund (PIF), the state-owned body that bought the majority stake in the country’s four main clubs in 2023: Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad and Al Ahli.” – read the report.
“CR7 feels he deserved more respect, considering the decisive role he played in boosting Saudi Arabian football and elevating it to an unprecedented level. Furthermore, he accepted the role of ambassador for the 2034 World Cup, which will take place in Saudi Arabia, to give the competition greater visibility,” the report added.
Ronaldo joined Al Nassr at the end of 2022 in one of the most shocking transfers in soccer history after leaving Manchester United. The deal was reportedly worth up to $200 million a year and led to a slew of top players, including Neymar and Karim Benzema, leaving Europe for the oil-rich kingdom.
Cristiano Ronaldo: His Next Possible Destination
Cristiano Ronaldo could leave Al Nassr in June, with MLS and Europe as possible destinations.
Here are the betting odds on Ronaldo’s Move:
Any MLS Club 7/4
Sporting Lisbon 5/2
Any Other Saudi Club 5/1
Real Madrid 10/1
Chelsea 12/1
PSG 25/1
Newcastle 25/1
Manchester United 40/1