Cristiano Ronaldo’s future beyond Al-Nassr remains shrouded in uncertainty as his contract with the Saudi Arabian club is set to expire next month.
Reports from Spanish outlet Marca have recently linked the Portuguese superstar with a potential move to Brazil, sparking widespread speculation about the next chapter in the career of one of football’s greatest icons.
Since his high-profile move to Al-Nassr in 2023, Ronaldo has been a headline-maker in Saudi Arabia, not only for his incredible goal-scoring feats but also for the financial muscle behind his signing.
The 40-year-old legend reportedly received an eye-watering salary that enticed him away from European football, paving the way for a wave of top players considering moves to the Middle East.
Ronaldo’s impressive tally of 91 goals in 103 appearances underscores his continued prowess on the pitch, yet the elusive silverware with Al-Nassr has raised questions about his future ambitions.
This season, Ronaldo found the net 33 times in 39 games, maintaining his reputation as a clinical finisher. However, Al-Nassr’s failure to secure any trophies—including an early exit from the AFC Champions League at the hands of Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale—has reportedly left the forward contemplating his next move.
With the Saudi Pro League campaign nearing its end, Al-Nassr currently lie outside the top three, risking missing out on Champions League qualification and further dimming the prospect of silverware.
Amid this backdrop, Marca claims that four Brazilian clubs—Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Palmeiras—have approached Ronaldo with offers that could tempt the veteran striker.
All four clubs are set to compete in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled to begin in the United States on June 13th.
The opportunity to feature on such a global stage would undoubtedly appeal to a player still motivated by high-level competition and the prospect of adding to his extensive trophy cabinet.
Yet, skepticism remains high over the likelihood of a Brazilian move. Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr expires on June 30th, while the Club World Cup’s group stages conclude on June 27th, meaning any potential participation would hinge on these clubs progressing deep into the tournament.
Moreover, the significant financial gap between what Ronaldo currently earns in Saudi Arabia and the budgets of Brazilian clubs makes such a move seem improbable.
Botafogo’s coach Renato Paiva addressed the rumors with cautious humor, saying, “Christmas is only in December… But if he came, you can’t say no to a star like that. I don’t know anything. I’m just answering the question. But, as I said, coaches always want the best. Ronaldo, even at his age, is still a goal-scoring machine. In a team that creates chance after chance, he would be good.”
Despite the uncertainties, one thing is clear: Ronaldo remains driven to extend his remarkable career, with the 2026 World Cup a key target on the horizon.
Whether he opts to stay in Saudi Arabia, make a surprise move to Brazil, or explore other opportunities, football fans worldwide will be watching closely as the five-time Ballon d’Or winner prepares for the next phase of his legendary journey.