A New Chapter Begins: Where Will Cristiano Ronaldo Go After Leaving Al Nassr?

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again shaken the football world. On May 26, 2025, the Portuguese superstar hinted at his departure from Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr with a cryptic post on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram Stories, stating:

“This chapter is over. The story? It’s still being written. Grateful for everything.”

This simple yet powerful message has fueled speculation about what could be the final move in Ronaldo’s illustrious career.

Ronaldo’s Journey with Al Nassr

Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in January 2023 on a record-breaking contract worth £164 million per year. His arrival marked a turning point for Saudi football, attracting global attention and opening the door for other major stars to join the Saudi Pro League.

In terms of performance, Ronaldo delivered:

93 goals in 105 appearances
Winner of the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup
No league title or Asian Champions League trophy

Despite his goal-scoring prowess, the lack of major team success and the club’s failure to qualify for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup left both Ronaldo and the fans wanting more. With his contract ending this summer, it appears CR7 is ready for a new challenge — one possibly tied to the upcoming Club World Cup in the USA.

Top 5 Potential Destinations for Cristiano Ronaldo

1. Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia)

Rival club Al Hilal is reportedly interested in snatching Ronaldo from Al Nassr. With Neymar’s future uncertain due to injuries and his possible exit, Al Hilal might look to make another big statement signing. This move would keep Ronaldo in the region while reigniting local rivalries.

2. Palmeiras (Brazil)

Palmeiras, one of Brazil’s most historic clubs, has qualified for the 2025 Club World Cup. They’re rumored to be preparing a short-term deal to bring Ronaldo in just for the tournament. It would be a strategic signing to boost their global visibility — and Ronaldo’s — in the tournament hosted by FIFA in the U.S.

3. Wydad Casablanca (Morocco)

A surprising contender, Wydad has qualified for the Club World Cup and recently fueled speculation by sharing hints about a potential signing on social media. If Ronaldo joined the Moroccan giants, it would mark his first time playing for an African club — a groundbreaking move both symbolically and commercially.

4. Fenerbahçe (Turkey)

Newly appointed Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho, a former mentor at Real Madrid, is rumored to be considering a reunion with CR7. The Turkish club offers competitive football, massive fan support, and Champions League ambitions. A move to Istanbul could add another fiery chapter to Ronaldo’s career.

5. Sporting CP (Portugal)

A return to his boyhood club would be a poetic way for Ronaldo to end his career. Sporting Lisbon has remained competitive in both the Portuguese league and Europe. Fans would welcome their hero back with open arms, and Ronaldo could retire where it all began — in front of the fans who first believed in him.

What’s Next for CR7?

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is set to be one of the most-watched sporting events of the year, with elite clubs from around the globe converging in the United States. Several of the clubs listed above will be participating, and FIFA has even allowed a special transfer window for eligible players to join participating teams.

Given Ronaldo’s ambition and global brand, he’ll be looking for a club that offers: