Portuguese Legend To Stay in Saudi Arabia Despite Transfer Rumors and Trophy Drought.
Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of extending his contract with Al Nassr, ending speculation about a potential exit this summer. He parted ways with Manchester United in January 2023. Then the 40-year-old Portuguese icon joined the Saudi Pro League club.
He was rumoured to be moving out this summer. However, he now seems to be set to remain with the Riyadh-based team for at least one more season. The Saudi Arabian side will also have an option that could extend his stay for another year until 2027.
🚨🇵🇹 BREAKING: Cristiano Ronaldo set to sign new deal at Al Nassr as formal documents are being checked.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 25, 2025
Final detail being discussed: one or two year deal, concrete possibility to make it happen until June 2027 if Cristiano wants.
Massive move for SPL to keep Cristiano. pic.twitter.com/Aw1dyKPUNO
As per the renowned journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo has reached an agreement in principle to renew his contract. As the last step of the deal, the documents are now being checked. The only remaining detail is the duration, with Saudi officials pushing for a two-year extension. His current deal is set to expire on June 30.
Ronaldo has contributed to 99 goals in 111 appearances across all competitions for Al Nassr. Despite this immense personal contribution, the Portuguese has yet to lead the club to a major silverware. They finished third in the Saudi Pro League 2024-25, concluding the season with a 3-2 loss to Al-Fateh.
Following that match, Ronaldo sparked exit rumors with a cryptic Instagram post that read: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.” Many interpreted it as a farewell message. This was especially after FIFA President Gianni Infantino hinted Ronaldo might play for another team at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
However, those rumours did not materialize. Al Nassr failed to qualify for the tournament. And their domestic rivals Al-Hilal secured Saudi Arabia’s only spot in the Club World Cup. Despite rumors linking Ronaldo to a temporary switch, it seems, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner decided to commit to Al Nassr’s project.
Ronaldo’s impact on Saudi football has been monumental since becoming the first global star to join the league under the Public Investment Fund’s ambitious football expansion plan in 2022. While individual accolades have continued, including league scoring records, team success has eluded the star.
Now preparing for the coming season which will be his career’s 24th, Ronaldo is determined to continue competing at the highest level. His longevity and fitness remain remarkable even at 40 years or age. With stars like Sadio Mane and Aymeric Laporte around him, he will hope to finally clinch silverware next season with Al Nassr.
soccer Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.
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