Cristiano Ronaldo, the iconic Portuguese forward, has revealed that he declined multiple invitations to play in the Club World Cup, choosing instead to prioritize rest and recovery as he prepares himself for the challenges of a long and grueling season.
The Portuguese star made the comments after signing a new two-year deal with Al-Nassr that will keep him at the club beyond his 42nd birthday.
The Saudi Pro League club announced on Thursday that Ronaldo had signed a two-year contract which would keep him at the club past his 42nd birthday.
Speculation over the 40-year-old’s plans intensified last month when FIFA President Gianni Infantino said discussions were underway about Ronaldo playing in the Club World Cup, despite Al-Nassr failing to qualify.
“I had some offers to play in the World Cup but I think it didn’t make sense because I prefer to have a good rest, a good preparation, because this season will be very long as it is the World Cup season at the end of the year,” Ronaldo said in a video posted by Al-Nassr on X.
“I want to be ready not only for Al-Nassr but also for the national team. So, this is why I decided to play the last game for the Nations League and not listen to anything,” he added.
“And of course, to be in this club, which I love.”
Ronaldo scored for Portugal in the Nations League final against Spain earlier this month, which ended 2-2 before his side went on to beat the European champions on penalties.
The Portugal captain said his aim in staying at Al-Nassr was to win a major trophy with the Riyadh-based side.
“My goal, it’s always to win something important for Al-Nassr. And of course I still believe in that,” Ronaldo added.
“This is why I renewed the two years more because I believe that I will be a champion in Saudi Arabia.”
Ronaldo, who joined Al-Nassr in 2022 after leaving Manchester United as a free agent, has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances for them in all competitions.
Ronaldo is also eyeing the 1,000-goal milestone in his career. He has scored 794 goals in club football and 138 for Portugal to take his tally to 932.