Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a new two-year contract with Al-Nassr, committing to the Saudi Pro League club until 2027 and ensuring he will play beyond his 42nd birthday. The extension quells recent speculation about the Portuguese star’s future and cements his ongoing role as the face of Saudi football’s global ambitions.
The Portugal captain, now 40, initially joined Al-Nassr in December 2022 after a dramatic exit from Manchester United, following public criticism of the club and manager Erik ten Hag. His initial deal was set to expire at the end of June 2024, but the new agreement signals his continued faith in the club and its project.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ronaldo confirmed the news, writing: “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”
Although Al-Nassr have yet to win a domestic title during Ronaldo’s tenure, the club has reaped the rewards of his extraordinary goal-scoring form. Last season, he netted 35 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions, finishing as the Saudi Pro League’s top scorer for the second year running. In total, he has scored 99 goals in 111 games for Al-Nassr and now sits just 62 goals away from reaching 1,000 senior career goals—a milestone only he seems likely to achieve.
Ronaldo’s decision to remain in Saudi Arabia follows a wave of transfer rumours, intensified by his social media post last month stating “the chapter is over,” which came after a disappointing, trophyless season in which Al-Nassr finished third. It also comes amid reports that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner turned down offers from teams participating in the 2025 Club World Cup after Al-Nassr failed to qualify.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino had hinted at the possibility of Ronaldo featuring in the tournament with another club, but the forward appears to have chosen loyalty—and a lucrative deal—over a return to the European spotlight. With an estimated £177 million annual salary, Ronaldo remains one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Fresh off leading Portugal to victory in the UEFA Nations League earlier this month, Ronaldo will likely now set his sights on a record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance next year, adding yet another chapter to an already legendary career.
While a return to European football now seems out of the question, Ronaldo’s commitment to Al-Nassr underlines his determination to continue competing at the highest level available—on his own terms.
Melissa Enoch
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