MUNICH (AP) – Cristiano Ronaldo expressed confidence that he will not participate in the Club World Cup, presenting a setback for FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s ambitions to feature one of soccer’s major stars in the tournament.
The Portuguese captain stated on Saturday that he has received “quite a few” offers from clubs involved in the tournament set for June 14th, but he is hesitant to accept any of them.
“At times it makes sense to have discussions, while at others it doesn’t. You simply can’t participate in everything, as people say,” Ronaldo remarked. “We have to consider what makes sense in the short, medium, and long term. Deciding not to attend the Club World Cup is my choice, despite the numerous invitations I received.”
The 40-year-old football legend was speaking in Munich a day before Portugal’s Nations League Final against Spain.
Last month, Infantino suggested that Ronaldo, who is still contracted with Saudi club Al Nasr until late June, might switch to one of the 32 teams competing in the Club World Cup due to a unique transfer window created for the tournament.
Ronaldo did little to dispel speculation when he posted: “This chapter is over” following Al Nasr’s last match in the Saudi professional league.
He also had connections with Club World Cup participants, including Brazil’s Palmeiras.
Al-Nassr’s move to cross-town rivals Al-Hilal was also a notable mention among qualified Saudi clubs.
FIFA would have greatly appreciated the boost in ticket sales that Ronaldo’s participation could have brought, but such a switch to a local rival would be unusual for players from European leagues.
Both Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal are among the four major Saudi Arabian clubs backed by the national public investment fund, each holding a 75% stake. Recently, FIFA announced the PIF as the “Official Partner” of the Club World Cup, alongside a billion-dollar prize to be distributed among participants.
“This is not relevant right now,” Ronaldo initially responded when asked about the Club World Cup. “It makes no sense to discuss anything other than the national team.”
Ronaldo propelled Portugal to the National League final on Wednesday, defeating Host Nation Germany 2-1.
His winning goal marked his record-extending 137th for Portugal. Should he play on Sunday, he will achieve his 221st appearance for the national team.
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Source: apnews.com