Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that his ambition to be in peak condition for a record sixth World Cup appearance in 2026 was the primary reason for extending his contract with Al-Nassr and rejecting offers to play in this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
The 40-year-old Portugal captain signed a new two-year contract with the Saudi Pro League club earlier this week, a deal that will keep him in Riyadh until June 2027.
Speaking to Al-Nassr TV, Ronaldo explained his decision to prioritize rest and a full pre-season over participating in the tournament currently being held in the United States.
“I had some offers to play [in the] Club World Cup, but I think it didn’t make sense because I prefer to have a good rest, a good preparation, because this season will be very long, because this is the season of the World Cup at the end,” Ronaldo stated.
He emphasized that his choice was made to ensure he is “ready not only for Al-Nassr, but also for the national team.”
Ronaldo, who has played in 11 major international tournaments and won both the UEFA European Championship in 2016 and two Nations League titles, has scored a record 138 goals in 221 appearances for Portugal.
Since joining Al-Nassr in 2022, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has scored 99 goals in 111 appearances for the club. He continues his pursuit of the 1,000-goal milestone for his professional career, with his current combined tally for club and country standing at 938.
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