No FIFA Club World Cup, Ronaldo aims for World Cup 2026

TPO - Instead of participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo wants to take time off to prepare for a long season, including the 2026 World Cup.

Previously, FIFA President Gianni Infantino hinted at the possibility of Ronaldo participating in the FIFA Club World Cup even though Al Nassr did not qualify, but the Portuguese superstar rejected this idea.

“I had a few invitations to play in the FIFA Club World Cup, but I thought it was not reasonable,” Ronaldo shared in a video posted on Al Nassr’s social media account. “I want to rest, prepare well for the upcoming long season, which will end with the 2026 World Cup.”

The 40-year-old has just signed a two-year contract extension with Al Nassr, taking him to 2027, after his 42nd birthday. This could be his last World Cup appearance at the tournament taking place in the US, Canada and Mexico in 2026.

In the Nations League final in early June, Ronaldo scored in a 2-2 draw with Spain before Portugal won on penalties.

Ronaldo affirmed that his top priority is to maintain high performance for both club and national team: "I want to be ready not only for Al Nassr, but also for the national team. That is why I decided to retire after the Nations League final and did not consider other offers."

The Portuguese superstar also expressed his affection for the Saudi Arabian team: "I want to continue staying at this club, where I am loved."

Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in 2022 after leaving MU on a free transfer. He has scored 93 goals in 105 matches in all competitions. Ronaldo is currently aiming for the 1,000-goal milestone in his career, with a total of 932 goals, including 794 goals at club level and 138 goals for the Portuguese national team.

With the new contract, CR7's goal is to help Al Nassr conquer major titles: "I always want to win something important with Al Nassr. And I believe I can still become a champion in Saudi Arabia."

Trong Dat

Source: https://tienphong.vn/khong-fifa-club-world-cup-ronaldo-huong-toi-world-cup-2026-post1755828.tpo