Cristiano Ronaldo looks set to stay at Al-Nassr despite a cryptic social media post which appeared to signal the end of his time in Saudi Arabia.
Ronaldo’s contract with the club is set to come to an end on June 30.
The 40-year-old had previously been close to agreeing a new deal worth £167million-per-year.
On Monday, the Portuguese declared on Instagram that ‘this chapter is over’ prompting speculation that he would leave Al-Nassr.
Ronaldo has since since been linked to various teams, including his former club Sporting, while there have been suggestions that he could head to the MLS, Brazil, Turkey or another Saudi Arabian club.
However, according to French outlet Foot Mercato, Ronaldo has since signed a new contract to stay with Al-Nassr.
On Thursday, the club remained defiant statement, indicating confidence in their ability to keep the former Manchester United and Real Madrid superstar.
Speaking in a press conference, Al-Nassr sporting director Fernando Hierro outlined his optimism.
Hierro said: ‘I have to be positive. I don’t think Ronaldo will leave Al-Nassr.
‘In any case, we are working hard on all aspects.
‘Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr runs until the end of June 30.
‘We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us, and there are many clubs interested in signing him.
‘He is a huge phenomenon in the history of football and has helped the league grow.
‘We are in contact to renew his contract and hope he continues with us.’
Last week, FIFA boss Gianni Infantino suggested that Ronaldo could feature in the Club World Cup.
With Al-Nassr not involved in the competition, Infantion’s comments suggested Ronaldo could be on the move.
‘Ronaldo might play for one of the teams as well at the Club World Cup,’ he said. ‘There are discussions.’
‘There are discussions with some clubs, so if any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup… who knows, who knows.’
However, with reports now suggesting Ronaldo is staying put, he looks set to miss FIFA’s new club showpiece competition.
Since moving to Saudi Arabia in 2023, Ronaldo has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances.
He won the Arab Champions Cup in 2023 but has yet to take home the Saudi Pro League or the King’s Cup.
