The upcoming FIFA Club World Cup is set to take place in the United States from June 14 to July 13, featuring 32 teams from around the world. However, Cristiano Ronaldo’s current club, Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia, failed to qualify for the tournament.
This raises the question: will Ronaldo miss out on playing in the Club World Cup? Rumors are already swirling that the Portuguese superstar might leave Saudi Arabia to join Brazilian club Botafogo — a team that has qualified for the tournament. Alongside Botafogo, Brazilian clubs Fluminense, Flamengo, and Palmeiras will also participate.
According to a report by Marca, Ronaldo has received an offer from a Brazilian club. While Marca did not disclose the club’s name, several other media outlets have identified Botafogo as the likely suitor.
When asked about the potential signing, Botafogo head coach Renato Paiva gave a tactful response:
“If he (Ronaldo) comes, I wouldn’t be able to say no to a star like him. Honestly, I don’t know anything about it — I’m just answering the question. But every coach wants the best. Even at his age, Ronaldo is still a goal machine. In a team that creates chances, he would thrive.”
Paiva added that only the club’s American owner, John Textor, could confirm whether Ronaldo would be joining.
Despite Ronaldo’s strong personal form at Al Nassr, the club has endured a disappointing season, finishing without a single trophy and failing to qualify for the Club World Cup.
Set to turn 40 on February 5 next year, Ronaldo has yet to renew his contract with Al Nassr, which is set to expire on June 30.
Given these circumstances, speculation about the five-time Ballon d’Or winner making a surprise move to another club just to play in the Club World Cup cannot be dismissed.
