MUNICH — Cristiano Ronaldo has all but confirmed that he will not be participating in the upcoming Club World Cup, a decision which is likely to disappoint FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who had hoped to feature one of the sport’s most iconic figures in the tournament.
Speaking on Saturday, the captain of the Portuguese national team acknowledged receiving multiple offers from clubs participating in the event, set to begin on June 14. However, he decided not to accept any of these offers.
“Certain things are worth discussing, others are not, and you can’t be part of everything,” Ronaldo stated. “I have to think about the short, medium, and long-term implications. I have nearly decided not to participate in the Club World Cup, though I’ve received numerous invitations.”
The veteran soccer star made his statements in Munich just before Portugal’s Nations League final against Spain, drawing a line under speculation about his participation.
Last month, Infantino hinted that Ronaldo, who remains under contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr until the end of June, might transfer to one of 32 clubs entered in the Club World Cup through a special transfer window crafted for the tournament.
Carlos’ comments stirred speculation when he ended his tenure with Al-Nassr with a cryptic message implying completion. He was rumored to have been in discussions with several teams, including Brazil’s Palmeiras. Swapping to Al-Nassr’s close rivals—Al-Hilal, the sole Saudi club to qualify—was also floated as a possible move.
FIFA anticipated a surge in ticket sales with Ronaldo’s participation; however, such a short-term switch between intense local rivals is unprecedented in Europe.
Both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, counted among the “big four” Saudi clubs, are substantially backed by the nation’s Public Investment Fund, holding a dominant 75% stake in each. Recently, FIFA has announced PIF as an official partner of the Club World Cup, with Saudi state financing underpinning the broadcasting arrangements and the $1 billion prize fund distributed among the competitors.
When Ronaldo was queried about the Club World Cup during a press briefing, he responded dismissively, indicating that his attention was on more immediate commitments. “All of this is not relevant right now,” he remarked. “The sole focus should be on the national team.”
Ronaldo showcased his prowess yet again by guiding Portugal to the Nations League final with a decisive victory over the host nation Germany, scoring his 137th goal for Portugal—an ongoing world record. His potential appearance on Sunday could further extend his record, marking a milestone 221st national team cap.