Al Hilal dismiss Ronaldo rumours: “We won’t sign short-term showcase players”

Speculation after Al Nassr's absence

Reports suggesting that Cristiano Ronaldo could make a short-term move to Al Hilal this summer solely to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup have been categorically denied by the club’s CEO, Esteve Calzada.

Following Al Nassr’s failure to qualify for the tournament, there had been speculation that Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia’s strongest representative and part of the PIF (Public Investment Fund) ownership structure, might bring in Ronaldo as a short-term signing. The prospect of seeing global icons Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi—whose Inter Miami side will feature in the competition—on the same stage had further fuelled the idea.

Calzada responds: not our philosophy

However, Calzada firmly rejected the claims in a statement to BBC Sport.

“Normally we don’t comment on these kinds of speculations,” Calzada said. “But our name is often used as leverage in negotiation processes. We have the utmost respect for a great player like Ronaldo; however, signing the iconic player of our biggest rival for just a few weeks of a tournament goes against our philosophy.”

Transfer talks ahead of Club World Cup

Calzada also mentioned that Al Hilal had held talks with some players ahead of the Club World Cup, but that the transfer window posed challenges:

“Some players were already in holiday mode, and others came with unrealistic demands. But we know our squad is highly competitive. After the tournament, we’ll enter the regular transfer window with major ambitions.”

Ronaldo confirms and rejects Club World Cup offers

Cristiano Ronaldo personally confirmed that he had received offers from clubs to take part in the Club World Cup. One of the teams reportedly interested was Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca. However, Ronaldo made it clear in an interview with BBC Sport that he had turned down these proposals:

“Some teams approached me. Some proposals were reasonable, others weren’t; but you can’t chase every ball.”

Sky Sports also reported on his statement, highlighting Ronaldo’s words:

“You have to think short, medium and long term. There were offers, but I didn’t consider them.”

Still at the top: Ronaldo's performance at 40

Although Cristiano Ronaldo turned down Club World Cup offers, he continues to perform at the highest level individually. In the 2024/25 season, the 40-year-old star featured in 41 official matches for Al Nassr, scoring 35 goals and providing 6 assists, showing remarkable consistency. With his physical condition, football intelligence and goal-scoring instincts, Ronaldo remains a standout figure in world football despite his age.

Al Hilal shuts the door on short-term projects

With this clear message from Al Hilal, all rumours regarding Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation in the Club World Cup have now been laid to rest. The club has once again emphasised its focus on long-term sporting projects rather than short-term marketing initiatives.