The chief executive of Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal has dismissed speculation about a potential loan move for Cristiano Ronaldo, calling it “completely counter-intuitive” due to the Portuguese star’s ties to fierce rivals Al-Nassr.
Al-Hilal were reportedly exploring options during a special transfer window introduced by FIFA earlier this month ahead of the revamped Club World Cup. However, CEO Esteve Calzada told BBC Sport that bringing in the 40-year-old forward — currently with Al-Nassr — was never a serious consideration.
“As much as I respect Ronaldo as a huge player, as we all recognise he is, it’s certainly completely counter-intuitive that you bring the biggest player of your biggest opponent to play with you,” Calzada said.
Ronaldo, whose contract with Al-Nassr expires at the end of June, had been loosely linked with a short-term switch to Al-Hilal, one of several Saudi clubs backed by the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Calzada explained that the unusual timing and short duration of the special transfer window, along with player demands and holiday mindsets, made any move unlikely.
“You don’t want to take a decision thinking about this tournament that then you have to carry on with for the next two or three years,” he said. “Some players were already in a holiday mindset, others asked for too much money.”
He added that Al-Hilal remain confident in the strength of their squad and will return to the market during the traditional transfer window after the tournament.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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