Cristiano Ronaldo's chapter 'over' at Al Nassr: Top 5 potential transfer options for the former Ballon d'or winner

Cristiano Ronaldo has finished another season in Saudi Arabia, ending the 2024 Saudi Pro League with the Golden Boot after scoring 25 goals. But despite the goals, there was no major trophy for Al-Nassr. Their final-day 3-2 win over Al-Fateh did little to lift the mood, and if Al-Qadsiah win the King Cup, Al-Nassr might even miss out on next season¡¯s AFC Champions League.

Once again, Ronaldo ends a season without silverware. And this time, it seems like he¡¯s had enough. The Portuguese star posted a cryptic message on X that read, ¡°This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.¡± His contract with Al-Nassr runs out this summer, and he¡¯s yet to sign an extension. That message has now added fuel to the rumours that Ronaldo could be on the move once again.

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At 40, Ronaldo may not get many more chances to play at the top level, but there are a few doors still open. Let¡¯s take a look at five possible destinations if he does leave Al-Nassr.

1. Brazil

In recent weeks, talks about Ronaldo heading to Brazil have picked up. Why? Because of the upcoming Club World Cup. Four Brazilian teams, namely, Botafogo, Palmeiras, Flamengo, and Fluminense. They are set to feature in the tournament. Ronaldo's presence would not only boost attention but also help FIFA promote the new Club World Cup.

Even Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president, hinted at this idea. He said, ¡°Cristiano Ronaldo might play in the Club World Cup, yeah. There are discussions with some clubs.¡± That comment opened the door. If one of the Brazilian clubs pulls off this move, Ronaldo would get another shot at silverware on a big global stage.

2. Al-Hilal

Money talks, and let¡¯s be honest, Ronaldo¡¯s current salary in Saudi Arabia isn¡¯t something many clubs can afford. That¡¯s why a move within the country, especially to a rival like Al-Hilal, makes sense.

Al-Hilal have been interested in Ronaldo before, and since player deals in Saudi are centrally managed, the league might not mind helping make this switch happen. Plus, Al-Hilal are also going to the Club World Cup. So if Ronaldo wants to stay in Saudi, but still challenge for big prizes, Al-Hilal could be the perfect place.

3. Monterrey

If Ronaldo really wants to feature in the Club World Cup, a move to Mexico¡¯s Monterrey isn¡¯t out of the question. The Mexican club is one of the confirmed participants in the tournament, and they¡¯ve already got one of Ronaldo¡¯s old mates, Spanish veteran defender Sergio Ramos on their team.

The two shared plenty of success at Real Madrid and still have a strong friendship. If the chance to play one last tournament with Ramos comes up, Ronaldo might just go for it. Monterrey may not be a traditional choice, but for one last dance, it¡¯s not impossible.

4. Esperance Tunis

Now this one sounds wild, but let¡¯s not rule it out just yet. Esperance Tunis are also heading to the Club World Cup, and their name popped up in a recent Spanish report. A permanent deal sounds unlikely, but maybe a short-term move just for the tournament?

Their squad value is nowhere near Ronaldo¡¯s level, and financially it seems far-fetched. Still, with FIFA keen to promote the Club World Cup, anything can happen. A shock cameo in Tunisia would definitely get headlines.

5. Sporting CP

A return to where it all started, Sporting CP. It would be a beautiful ending to Ronaldo¡¯s incredible career. He grew up at the Lisbon club before heading to Manchester United as a teenager. Sporting will lose Viktor Gyokeres this summer, so they might be looking for a big name up front.

Ronaldo has previously played down talk of going back, but as he turns 40, home might feel closer than ever. Sporting have just won the league, so they can offer Champions League football. That might be enough to convince him for one final run in Europe.