Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he will not take part in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, despite receiving multiple offers from clubs involved in the tournament. The Portugal captain, who turns 40 this year, made the decision amid growing speculation over his future, with his contract at Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of June.
In May, FIFA president Gianni Infantino had suggested that Ronaldo could still feature at the expanded Club World Cup after Al-Nassr failed to qualify for the competition. However, the former Manchester United forward has now ruled out that possibility.
“I won’t be at the Club World Cup,” Ronaldo said. “Some teams approached me, with some offers being more sensible than others, but it’s impossible to pursue every opportunity. You can’t catch every ball.”
Speculation surrounding Ronaldo’s future intensified after he posted on social media that “the chapter is over” following Al-Nassr’s final league match of the season. The message fuelled rumours of a potential move ahead of the tournament in the United States.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League final against Spain on Sunday, Ronaldo revealed that a decision regarding his next step is close.
“My future decision is almost final,” he said, without offering further details.
Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in early 2023 after his contract with Manchester United was terminated. During his time in Saudi Arabia, he has been prolific in front of goal, scoring 99 goals and registering 19 assists in 111 appearances. Last season alone, he netted 35 times in 41 matches, though he was unable to lift any major trophies with the club.
The revamped FIFA Club World Cup is set to kick off on June 14, featuring 32 of the world’s top clubs in a month-long tournament across the United States. While Ronaldo will not be involved, his legacy in the competition remains unmatched.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is one of the most successful players in Club World Cup history, having lifted the trophy four times. He is also the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer, with seven goals from just eight appearances.
However, his absence opens the door for others to challenge that record. With the competition expanded from seven teams to 32, the increased number of matches presents greater opportunities for players to surpass Ronaldo’s long-standing goalscoring mark.
As the football world awaits clarity on his next move, Ronaldo’s decision ensures that the 2025 Club World Cup will unfold without one of its most iconic figures on the pitch.
