Al Nassr sporting director Fernando Hierro held a press conference to address certain situations at the club, including rumors about Cristiano Ronaldo potentially leaving.
The press conference was announced yesterday, with many expecting confirmation of Ronaldo's departure from the club. Heirro refused to reveal that the Portuguese star would be leaving, but does mention the status of contract talks with the player.
Fernando Hierro: "We are negotiating with Cristiano Ronaldo to renew his contract. God willing, we will find a solution. Ronaldo's contract with Al Nassr runs until the end of June. We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us, and there are many clubs interested in signing him.”
Hierro mentions that Ronaldo joining the Saudi Pro League is a national project and is hopeful that the player will stay. Ronaldo is currently reviewing his options in the next two weeks.
Fernando Hierro: "Ronaldo's presence at the club is positive, and has helped in achieving some things within the club, such as the stadiums and others, and his positive actions have influenced many players.”
Cristiano Ronaldo's options after Al Nassr
Ronaldo has been heavily rumored to join Al Nassr's rivals, Al Hilal, as the team will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup next month. Al Hilal are the current favorites to sign the Portuguese star if he does not renew his contract with Al Nassr.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Ronaldo's options are open, including European clubs. The Portuguese star is currently 40 years old but remains an attractive option for teams.
Ronaldo has also been rumored to be wanted by Brazilian clubs, who will also compete in the Club World Cup. Those teams are Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Botafogo.
Ronaldo's former manager at Al Nassr, Luis Castro, hints that Brazil will likely not be the Portuguese player's next destination. He also gave his view on Ronaldo's words about 'closing a chapter'.
Luis Castro: "That's a question only he [Ronaldo] can answer. Knowing Cristiano, I don't think he'll go to Brazil. Every season that ends is like a cycle that closes. That's how I see it. I don't see it or interpret it the way many do. A chapter has closed, a football season has ended. We're going to start a new one.”
Hierro on Ronaldo's recent social media post
Although Hierro is hopeful that Ronaldo will sign a new contract with Al Nassr, many doubt his words because of Ronaldo's social media post. Ronaldo's message has been interpreted as a goodbye from Al Nassr as he looks for a new club.
Hierro was asked about Ronaldo's post on social media, and his answer gives more doubt that the Portuguese star is certainly staying at Al Nassr.
A special summer transfer window opens on June 1, which is this Sunday. This special transfer window allows clubs participating in the Club World Cup to bring in reinforcements for the tournament.
This window is open for clubs not participating in the competition as well. Ronaldo's future will be revealed sooner rather than later, especially if he leaves Al Nassr.
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