Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal defeated Germany. © ANSA / ANNA SZILAGYI

Ronaldo at the Club World Cup? "There have been talks"

In recent days, there have been several rumors about Cristiano Ronaldo's potential participation in the upcoming Club World Cup, but the Portuguese has other plans.

June 07, 2025

From: dpa

Football star Cristiano Ronaldo is not planning to compete in the upcoming Club World Cup. It's almost certain that he won't compete in the event in the USA from June 14 to July 13 (local time), the captain of the Portuguese national team said ahead of the Nations League final against Spain on Sunday (21 p.m.) in Munich.

Ronaldo's contract with Al-Nassr FC in Saudi Arabia expires at the end of the month, and the club has also not qualified for the World Cup. However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently fueled speculation that the attacking star could play in the tournament by transferring to a different club. Ronaldo explained that there have been discussions and offers. But his decision is virtually finalized. Participants can still sign new players for the Club World Cup until Tuesday.

Even at 40, the striker remains an important part of his team. © ANSA / RONALD WITTEK

The 40-year-old apparently doesn't plan on ending his career too soon. He doesn't have many years left to play, but he's feeling good at the moment. "I'm enjoying it," Ronaldo said. He doesn't know when it will be over yet.

Duel with Yamal nothing special for Ronaldo

Ronaldo is also in the spotlight at the Nations League final because of his clash with Spain's top talent, Lamine Yamal. However, the multiple World Player of the Year remains unfazed. Comparisons like this are constantly being made between him and other players. "They are completely different generations. One begins, another ends," said Portugal's record goalscorer. The 17-year-old Yamal has a lot of quality. The FC Barcelona teenager should be allowed to grow up in peace and not put under too much pressure, Ronaldo said.

Ronaldo scored Portugal's 2-1 victory against Germany in the semifinal on Wednesday. Yamal scored twice in Spain's spectacular 5-4 win over France on Thursday, making him the youngest double goalscorer in the Spanish national team's history.