FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently hinted that Cristiano Ronaldo could still play in the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States, even though his current team, Al Nassr from Saudi Arabia, didn’t qualify.
Infantino made this comment during a relaxed interview with famous YouTuber IShowSpeed, which quickly grabbed attention and sparked rumors.
According to Infantino, discussions are ongoing between clubs about the possibility of signing Ronaldo on a short-term deal for the tournament.
Infantino stated, “There are discussions with some clubs, so if any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup… who knows.”
This surprise announcement has sparked a flurry of interest, with football fans around the world speculating about which team Ronaldo might join.
As the 32-team tournament kicks off on June 14, the question remains whether a club will make an offer to secure the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s services.
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Ronaldo’s Possible Participation in 2025 Club World Cup
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will take place in the United States starting on June 14. This year, the tournament will be the biggest ever, with 32 teams playing in 11 different cities.
Additionally, it’s also the first time the tournament will be held in the summer, making it more exciting and likely to get lots of attention.
To help with this new format, FIFA has created a special transfer window from June 1 to June 10. During this time, clubs can sign players just for the tournament, even if they are not normally part of the team.
Cristiano Ronaldo might take part in the competition, since his contract with Al Nassr ends in June, and with the new transfer rule, he could join another team just for this event.
If Ronaldo plays, it would be a big boost for FIFA. His presence could bring more fans, increase ticket sales, and attract more viewers.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said, “Cristiano Ronaldo might play in the Club World Cup… still a few weeks time, will be fun.”
Having a star like Ronaldo in the tournament would help make it even more popular, especially since it’s the first time it’s being held in the U.S.
Additionally, Ronaldo’s possible appearance could set up a historic reunion with his long-time rival, Lionel Messi, who will be playing for Inter Miami.
This would be the first time the two football legends face each other in a club competition since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Which Club Could Ronaldo Join for the Club World Cup?
Speculation is growing about which team Ronaldo might join for the tournament. Although Al Nassr failed to qualify, several clubs have reportedly shown interest in bringing the football superstar on board.
One potential option is Al Hilal, the only Saudi Arabian club to qualify for the Club World Cup. Infantino’s close ties with the Saudi state, which will host the 2034 World Cup, have raised further questions about a possible move to Al Hilal. Other clubs have also been linked to Ronaldo.
Reports say that the Brazilian team Palmeiras has made an offer, and the Moroccan team Wydad Casablanca might also be interested. However, Wydad currently faces a FIFA ban that prevents them from registering new players, making a move to that club unlikely.
The coach of Botafogo, a Brazilian team that has qualified for the tournament, also commented on Ronaldo’s potential move.
Renato Paiva jokingly remarked, “Christmas is only in December. But if he came, you can’t say no to a star like that.” He added that even at Ronaldo’s age, his goal-scoring ability would make him a valuable addition to any team.
FIFA’s exceptional transfer window, which runs from June 1 to 10, allows clubs to sign players for the Club World Cup, giving teams a brief but critical window to complete deals.
This makes it easier for players like Ronaldo to potentially join a club at the last minute, ensuring their participation in the event.
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