Al Nassr clarify speculation over Cristiano Ronaldo's future

Al-Nassr chief Fernando Hierro have backed the Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo after clarifying the club’s intention to keep the two-time Saudi Pro League golden boot winner.

Hierro looks to put to bed speculation over Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with Saudi club hopeful of keeping “phenomenon” and extending “national project” after the club finished third in the Saudi League.

Ronaldo, who had earlier hinted at an Al-Nassr exit after failing to lead the club to win any official trophies since arriving in January 2023, is now receiving strong backing from his sporting director to stay beyond next month.

The 40-year-old will be out of contract in June, but Al-Nassr sporting director Hierro has revealed he hopes Ronaldo will sign a contract extension after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner hinted he will leave the club this summer.

The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Juventus legend moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023 but has won only one piece of silverware, with Stefano Pioli’s side recently failing to lead the team to qualification for the AFC Champions League.

Ronaldo’s next move remains uncertain, with speculation linking him to potential destinations like the Major League Soccer (MLS), Brazil, Turkey, Sporting Lisbon, or even another Saudi club, Al-Hilal.

While Hierro admitted other clubs are interested in the former Real Madrid star, he hopes Ronaldo will extend his stay.

Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, Hierro said:

“Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr runs until June 30. We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us, and there are many clubs interested in signing him.

“We are negotiating with Cristiano Ronaldo to renew his contract. God willing, we will find a solution.

“Ronaldo’s presence from the beginning is a national project. Cristiano has opened up soccer in this country to the world.

“It’s phenomenal that he had the courage to come here, stay here, and open up the Saudi Arabian league to the world. It’s an extraordinary milestone.

“Since his arrival, top-level players have come here. He opened all the doors. From there, the people at the top are doing an extraordinary job.

“They’re pushing forward. We are in contact to renew his contract and hope he continues with us.”