Following his social media hint that his time at Al-Nassr may be over, Cristiano Ronaldo, nearing 40, shows no sign of retiring. He recently posted `This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Thanks to all.` While the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup was his only trophy with Al-Nassr (a win against Al-Hilal), he might quickly find another opportunity for silverware at his next destination.
Staying in the Saudi Pro League is a possibility, with Al-Hilal reportedly showing interest. This raises the significant question of Cristiano Ronaldo`s potential participation in the upcoming Club World Cup, scheduled to begin June 14 with a match between Al Ahly and Inter Miami. His involvement is certainly plausible. Beyond his vast experience, which makes him appealing to many clubs, the tournament offers a rare chance for potentially the final on-field encounter between Ronaldo and his great rival, Lionel Messi, on US soil. Opportunities for such a historic matchup are dwindling, making a summer CWC clash a compelling prospect.
Could the Transfer Window Facilitate a Ronaldo Move?
While the standard summer transfer window usually opens in early July, a special mini-window from June 1-10 has been established for teams competing in the Club World Cup. This allows participants to bolster their squads ahead of the tournament and potentially use the competition as part of their preseason preparation.
Under FIFA rules, a player can be registered with up to three clubs in a season but only play competitive matches for two. This means Ronaldo could theoretically sign with a Club World Cup team during the mini-window, participate in the tournament, and then move to another club afterwards, even returning to Al-Nassr if that were his preference.
Potential Club World Cup Teams Interested in Ronaldo
Numerous clubs participating in the Club World Cup would undoubtedly be keen to add Ronaldo to their roster. Key potential suitors include Al-Hilal and Al Ahly of Egypt. While major European clubs might be wary of short-term deals disrupting team dynamics, other clubs globally could view Ronaldo as a valuable asset (`mercenary`) to enhance their chances against top competition. An emotional angle also exists: joining Al-Hilal would set up a potential match against his former club, Real Madrid.
Given Al-Hilal`s ownership by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund, matching Ronaldo`s current compensation level would pose no issue. Egypt`s Al Ahly has also signaled interest in strengthening their squad for the tournament. Although they lack the financial power of the Saudi clubs, the increased prize money from the Club World Cup offers them more flexibility to compete for players they might not traditionally afford. Furthermore, the possibility of a tournament-opening match featuring Ronaldo and Messi facing off is a thrilling prospect that seemed almost impossible just a year ago.
Benedict Kingsley 
Adrian Whitmore