Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on why rest and Al-Nassr mattered more than FIFA Club World Cup offers

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jul 01, 2025, 18:50 IST

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Cristiano Ronaldo declined offers to play in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, prioritizing rest and preparation for Al-Nassr and the Portuguese national team. He recently signed a two-year extension with Al-Nassr, expressing his love for the club and his desire to win a major trophy. This decision dashes fans' hopes for another Messi vs. Ronaldo showdown.

Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on why rest and Al-Nassr mattered more than FIFA Club World Cup offers (Image via Getty)

Cristiano Ronaldo has finally shared why he turned down offers to play in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Fans were confused after a recent post hinted that he might be moving on. But now the football star has made it clear, he is staying with Al-Nassr. His reasons show a different side of Ronaldo that many didn’t expect.

Cristiano Ronaldo explains why he stayed with Al-Nassr instead of joining FIFA Club World Cup

On June 30, 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo told Al-Nassr’s official website that he got offers to play in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer. He decided to remain where he is, nevertheless. Ronaldo said he needed time to unwind and get ready for the long season ahead.

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. I want to be ready not only for Al-Nassr but also for the national team. So, this is why I decided to play the last game for the UEFA Nations League and not listen to anything. And of course, to be in this club, which I love,”

Cristiano Ronaldo revealed in an interview..Cristiano Ronaldo signed a two-year extension last week after joining Al-Nassr late 2022. He will therefore remain with the team until the 2026–27 campaign. He said he loves the club and wants to win a major trophy with them before he retires. His remarks make it clear that he is concentrating on both his team and remaining fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision ends fans’ hopes of a Messi vs Ronaldo Club World Cup match

Fans won't be able to witness Ronaldo play Lionel Messi in the Club World Cup as a consequence of his decision. Paris Saint-Germain beat Messi's Inter Miami, which had qualified for the tournament, in the Round of 16.

Although supporters wanted one more game between the two masters, Ronaldo opted on team and individual reasons.He also skipped recent offers so he could play his final UEFA Nations League match. Social media users on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram shared mixed reactions, some praised his loyalty, while others were disappointed to miss the Messi vs Ronaldo moment.Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo Pulled Into Shocking Controversy After Georgina Rodriguez Accused Of Chasing Footballers By Ex-FriendRonaldo said clearly that he wants to stay focused and healthy. “To be in this club, which I love, is what matters now,” he said in the interview. His goal is simple: finish strong and give his best for Al-Nassr and Portugal.He emphasized the importance of mental recovery, family time, and long-term performance. Ronaldo believes that stepping back now ensures he’ll be physically and emotionally ready for future challenges and victories.

Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu’s inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.

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TOI Sports Desk

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