Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned soccer star, has agreed to a new contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, the club announced on Thursday. This extension keeps the Portuguese forward at the club until 2027, surpassing his previous deal which was set to expire in the summer of 2025. Despite ongoing reports and interest from various clubs globally, which Ronaldo himself acknowledged, the five-time Ballon d`Or winner signed a two-year extension with the Riyadh-based team he initially joined in December 2022.
Before leading Portugal to victory in the UEFA Nations League final earlier this summer, the former Real Madrid and Manchester United talisman revealed that clubs were interested in signing him, especially with the prospect of the FIFA Club World Cup approaching. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had also hinted at such interest. However, Ronaldo ultimately chose to continue his career in Saudi Arabia.
Expressing his feelings on the new agreement, Cristiano Ronaldo shared on his social media platforms:
“A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let`s make history together.”
Ronaldo`s decision to extend his stay at Al-Nassr suggests that the Saudi club could potentially be the final destination of his illustrious playing career before he decides to retire.
Speaking to the media last month regarding his future, he stated, “I know the end of my career is near, but I will continue playing until I will be happy to do it.” Ronaldo, who turned 40 years old in February, holds an incredible record of 956 career goals scored across all competitions and is widely celebrated as one of the greatest football players in the history of the sport.
Dominic Ashworth