Cristiano Ronaldo might be closer to Real Madrid than expected—but as a rival. With his contract at Al Nassr set to expire on June 30, 2025, the Portuguese icon is reportedly in talks to remain in the Saudi Pro League, but with a different team: Al Hilal, one of the clubs already qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

Saudi Arabia wants to keep its global star

According to sources from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) cited by AFP, "tough negotiations are underway to convince Cristiano Ronaldo to stay and play in the Saudi league next season." Surprisingly, these talks do not involve renewing with Al Nassr, but rather transferring to another Saudi giant.

The leading candidate is Al Hilal, a club that has already secured a spot in the expanded Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States from June 15 to July 13, 2025. Their qualification sets the stage for a possible clash with Real Madrid, where Ronaldo became a global icon.

A reunion full of meaning

During his time in Madrid, Cristiano Ronaldo won four UEFA Champions League titles and became the club’s all-time top scorer. A potential showdown between Al Hilal and Real Madrid in the early rounds of the tournament would be a blockbuster event, both emotionally and competitively.

Another contender to sign him is Al Ahli, the reigning AFC Champions League winners and also a qualified team for the 2025 Club World Cup. However, reports suggest that Ronaldo favors Al Hilal due to their ambitious sporting project and stronger global profile.

Could it really happen?

If the move materializes, football fans could witness Cristiano Ronaldo facing Real Madrid on one of the sport’s biggest stages. The prospect of such a clash adds even more excitement to a tournament already packed with elite teams from every continent.

From historic memories at the Santiago Bernabéu to a potential face-off on American soil, Ronaldo’s journey could come full circle—this time, wearing different colors and aiming to dethrone the club where he made history.