The 2024-25 Saudi Pro League season is just a few days away from its conclusion and it is another trophyless season for Al Nassr and also for Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite a stellar personal performance with scoring 33 goals in 38 appearances, Al Nassr has failed to achieve significant success, finishing outside the top three in the Saudi Pro League and missing out on qualification for the AFC Champions League. These underwhelming results have reportedly led to a pause in contract extension negotiations, sparking rumors that Ronaldo may be considering a departure from the Saudi club.
Tensions reached a visible high point following a recent 3-2 defeat to league leaders Al-Ittihad and an early exit from the AFC Champions League semi-finals to J1 League's Kawasaki Frontale. Ronaldo, visibly frustrated, stormed off the pitch without acknowledging fans or teammates. This behavior has reportedly not gone down well with Al Nassr's management. The report adds that Ronaldo's frustration at the situation has left Al-Nassr pondering their options over a renewal. With his current contract set to expire in June 2025 and no extension confirmed, speculation around Ronaldo's future at Al Nassr became more uncertain and even a switch to another Saudi side cannot be ruled out.
As Ronaldo approaches the final chapters of his career, his next move will be a point of interest for the fans across the world. However, whether he stays in the Middle East, returns to Europe or seeks a new adventure in different emerging leagues, only time will tell.
Which Three Clubs can Cristiano Ronaldo join Next Season?
If Ronaldo does decide to leave Al Nassr, several clubs from different leagues are already being discussed as potential destinations. However, considering his age, a move to the leagues with intense competitions and high physical demands, namely top European leagues are unlikely to be a future destination for Ronaldo. If the rift between Al Nassr and Ronaldo continues, here are the three clubs where Ronaldo can join in the next season
Al Hilal could be a perfect destination for the 40-year-old Portuguese star. The Saudi Pro League club have secured a place in the upcoming FIFA 2025 Club World Cup. Joining Al Hilal could allow Ronaldo to remain in Saudi Arabia while competing on a more prominent international stage. Currently the defending SPL champions are placed second on the points table, nine points behind Al Ittihad.
Los Angeles Galaxy
A move to Major League Soccer also remains a possibility. Ronaldo's inclusion to the 2024 MLS Cup winners will be highly beneficial for both Ronaldo and the league. After stars like Messi and Suarez, if Ronaldo chose to join an MLS side it will heavily boost the league's global presence and a possible chance to revisit the historic Messi vs Ronaldo rivalry will surely catch the global attention. Though Ronaldo previously claimed that the Saudi Pro League was superior to MLS, the allure of America and the commercial potential could sway his decision.
Sporting CP
A return to his boyhood club is also a highly possible alternative for Sporting CP in Portugal. Though it might lack the financial appeal or competitive edge of the other two options, finishing his career where it all began could be a poetic end to Ronaldo's legendary journey. However, the spectacular form he is in currently, it is unlikely that Ronaldo will join the Liga Portugal side in the next season. Hence, the possible reunion might have to wait for a few seasons.
