Ronaldo speaks bitterly about FIFA Club World Cup

(Dan Tri) - Cristiano Ronaldo said he did not want to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup to have time to rest and prepare for the new season as well as the 2026 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially extended his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, committing to the team until after his 42nd birthday, Al Nassr announced on Thursday (June 26).

However, shortly after signing the new contract, the Portuguese superstar attracted attention when he expressed his desire to rest instead of participating in the new version of the FIFA Club World Cup. Ronaldo's statement was made in the context of speculation about his possible participation in this tournament that has been rampant since last month, when FIFA President Gianni Infantino mentioned the possibility of Ronaldo playing, even though Al Nassr was not eligible to participate.

Ronaldo decided to rest after winning the Nations League with Portugal (Photo: Getty).

In a video posted by Al Nassr on the X platform, Ronaldo shared: "I have received some offers to play in the World Cup but I think that is not reasonable because I want to rest and prepare well, because next season will be very long because the World Cup will take place next year."

The former Man Utd striker stressed the importance of staying fit for both club and country: "I want to be ready not only for Al Nassr but also for the national team. So that's why I decided to play the last match for the Nations League and not listen to anything else. Of course, to continue to be at this club, which I love so much."

Ronaldo had earlier scored for Portugal in the Nations League final against Spain, a match that ended 2-2 before Portugal beat the European champions on penalties.

Regarding his personal goals at Al Nassr, the Portugal captain affirmed his ambition to win major titles with the Riyadh-based team: "My goal is always to win something important for Al Nassr. Of course I still believe in that. This is why I extended my contract for two more years because I believe I will become a champion in Saudi Arabia."

Since joining Al Nassr in 2022 after leaving Man Utd as a free agent, Ronaldo has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances in all competitions. He is now on track to reach the 1,000-goal mark in his career, with a total of 932 goals (794 for club and 138 for Portugal).

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/ronaldo-buong-loi-cay-dang-voi-fifa-club-world-cup-20250629074422219.htm