Cristiano Ronaldo hints at Al Nassr exit, says ‘This chapter is over’

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring Al-Nassr’s second against Esteghlal in the Asian Champions League, round of 16, second leg tie, at Al-Awwal Park, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on March 10, 2025. (Photograph: Reuters)
Cristiano Ronaldo has sparked speculation about his future after suggesting his time at Al Nassr may be coming to an end. In a cryptic social media post on Monday, just hours after the conclusion of the Saudi Pro League season, the 40-year-old wrote: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all,” alongside a photo of himself in an Al Nassr jersey.

Ronaldo joined the Saudi club in 2022 following his high-profile exit from Manchester United. His contract is set to expire this summer, prompting questions about his next move.

Although Al Nassr are not among the teams competing in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, a special transfer window from June 1–10 has been opened exclusively for the 32 participating clubs to sign new players. Saudi rivals Al Hilal will represent the country at the expanded tournament, which kicks off in the United States on June 14.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently hinted at the possibility of Ronaldo featuring at the tournament. Speaking in an interview with YouTuber IShowSpeed, Infantino said: “There are discussions with some clubs. If any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup… who knows, who knows.”

Despite Al Nassr’s third-place finish in the Saudi Pro League and their semi-final exit in the AFC Champions League to Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale, Ronaldo had an outstanding individual season, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 24 goals.

Last year, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner had suggested he could retire at Al Nassr. However, his recent comments have reignited speculation about a potential move—possibly to a Club World Cup contender.

Meanwhile, long-time rival Lionel Messi will feature in the Club World Cup with Inter Miami, adding further intrigue to Ronaldo’s next destination.

AFP