The football world was buzzing recently when FIFA president Gianni Infantino dropped a surprising hint about Cristiano Ronaldo possibly playing in this summer’s Club World Cup — even though Ronaldo’s current club, Al-Nassr, didn’t qualify for the tournament.
This unexpected revelation has raised plenty of eyebrows and sparked fresh debates about the superstar’s future.
Ronaldo’s Club Misses Out But Talks Continue
Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s Saudi Arabian team, did not secure a spot in the expanded 32-team Club World Cup set to take place in the United States.
Instead, Al Hilal will be the only Saudi team competing in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo, now 40 years old, is reportedly in ongoing negotiations over a contract extension with Al-Nassr.
Rumors say there’s no plan to loan him out, yet Infantino’s comments suggest otherwise.
Infantino Hints Ronaldo Could Play for Another Team
During a surprise interview alongside popular streamer IShowSpeed, Infantino hinted that Ronaldo might still feature in the Club World Cup — but not necessarily with Al-Nassr.
He mentioned that discussions are happening with some clubs and threw out a tantalizing suggestion: if any club is interested in hiring Ronaldo just for the tournament, it could happen.
When pressed, he doubled down: “Yeah, Cristiano Ronaldo might play in the Club World Cup… who knows?” This vague but intriguing statement has fueled speculation across the football world.
Ronaldo’s Camp Reacts to Infantino’s Comments
Ronaldo’s current representatives were reportedly unhappy with Infantino speaking so openly about the player’s future, according to The Athletic.
Meanwhile, rumors continue swirling around possible moves.
One of the most talked-about comes from Brazil, where an unnamed club — reportedly Botafogo — has expressed interest in signing Ronaldo.
Botafogo’s coach, Renato Paiva, was noncommittal but open to the idea.
“Christmas is only in December,” he said when asked, adding, “But if he came, you can’t say no to a star like that.
Even at his age, Ronaldo is still a goal-scoring machine.”
New FIFA Rule Could Make Late Signings Possible
Back in October, FIFA approved a new ‘exceptional registration window’ from June 1 to June 10, specifically designed to allow clubs participating in the Club World Cup to sign players before the tournament kicks off.
This rule change makes a late Ronaldo signing not just a fantasy but a real possibility.
The Stage Is Set for an Exciting Club World Cup in the US
The revamped Club World Cup will run from June 14 to July 13 across the United States.
Some of Ronaldo’s former clubs — Real Madrid and Juventus — have qualified, as has Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, which will compete as the host nation’s representative.
Ronaldo’s journey to Al-Nassr began in 2022 after leaving Manchester United midway through the 2022-23 season by mutual agreement.
His presence at the Club World Cup would add yet another exciting chapter to his illustrious career.
Infantino’s Controversial Schedule Adds to FIFA Drama
Meanwhile, off the pitch, Infantino found himself at the center of controversy after arriving late to FIFA’s annual congress following a trip with former US President Donald Trump to Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
His tardiness sparked outrage among FIFA members, with several officials, including eight members of the FIFA council and England’s FA head Debbie Hewitt, walking out during his speech in protest.
At 55, Infantino’s actions have drawn criticism, casting a shadow over FIFA just as the world gears up for one of football’s most anticipated tournaments.