Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted at the end of his time with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, sparking plenty of speculation about his next move along the way.
On social media, he posted: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.”
The 40-year-old’s contract, signed in 2023 for £164 million per year, is due to expire this summer and he will likely explore the free agent market ahead of the Club World Cup.
During his time with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo scored 93 goals in 105 appearances but did not secure a Saudi Pro League title or other major silverware, only winning the Arab Club Champions Cup.
Speculation about Ronaldo’s next move is the talk of the town, especially with the upcoming Club World Cup set to begin on June 14 in the United States.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that discussions are underway for Ronaldo to join a participating club, possibly a Brazilian team such as Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense, or Botafogo.
While the CWC is an option for Ronaldo, there are plenty of other clubs that his name has been linked to.
Read on to see a list of potential options alongside a South America switch ahead of the summer.
This chapter is over.
The story? Still being written.
Grateful to all. pic.twitter.com/Vuvl5siEB3— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 26, 2025
Sporting: A Return to His Roots
A return to Sporting, where Ronaldo began his professional career, is a sentimental option for the football icon.
His mother, Dolores Aveiro, has long expressed her desire to see her son back at the club.
With Viktor Gyokeres potentially departing from Lisbon, Sporting could benefit from Ronaldo’s experience and leadership.
They may not be participating in the Club World Cup, but it would still be a full circle moment for the Portuguese legend.
Inter Miami: Ronaldo x Messi
The prospect of Ronaldo joining Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has always generated excitement among fans.
Infantino has also suggested the idea of Miami borrowing Ronaldo to play alongside Lionel Messi at the Club World Cup.
However, reports have downplayed the possibility of Ronaldo teaming up with his long-time rival.
What if… Cristiano Ronaldo and Leo Messi meet each other again but in America🐐🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/dIF2z2Fs48
— Linked Football (@linked_football) May 26, 2025
Manchester United: One Last Dance
A return to Manchester United, where Ronaldo rose to fame and achieved significant success, is another possibility.
While the club may not be participating in the Club World Cup, the emotional appeal of a final stint at Old Trafford could be enticing for Ronaldo.
Especially as they are now led by former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim.
The only obstacle comes in the form of United’s newly restructured wage plan, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS unlikely to accommodate Ronaldo’s huge salary requirements.
Al-Hilal: The Likeliest Destination
Al-Hilal, one of Saudi Arabia’s top clubs, have been linked to Ronaldo previously and a move could be rubber-stamped by league chiefs as contracts are centralised in Saudi Arabia.
With Neymar’s departure, the club is seeking a new superstar to lead their squad.
🚨 BREAKING: Cristiano Ronaldo is seriously considering joining Al-Hilal. @Santi_J_FM
If the move happens, his debut will be against REAL MADRID, in the Club World Cup. pic.twitter.com/XSpv5iFVkt
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) May 27, 2025
Al-Hilal’s participation in the Club World Cup and their financial resources make them a strong contender for Ronaldo.
They would also offer him a better chance at claiming silverware in the Saudi Pro League.
Whether he returns to his roots at Sporting, unites with Messi at Inter Miami, has a final stint at Manchester United, or joins Al-Hilal, Ronaldo’s decision will undoubtedly be the big news across the summer.
With the Club World Cup approaching, fans and clubs alike are eager to see him face-off against Messi once last time, and it likely the man himself would want that as well.
