Cristiano Ronaldo Extends Al Nassr Stay with Historic New Contract Deal
Cristiano Ronaldo has put an end to speculation about his career plans by formally extending his stay with current team Al Nassr through a new contract agreement.
The Portuguese superstar's initial two-and-a-half year deal with the Saudi Pro League club, which helped establish the kingdom as a legitimate destination for elite international players, was set to expire at the conclusion of this month.
The veteran forward had fueled transfer rumors when he posted on social media following the 2024–25 campaign's conclusion, suggesting that particular "chapter" had come to an end.
This led to several weeks of conjecture about a potential move, with possibilities including a brief stint with clubs participating in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup tournament—a narrative enthusiastically promoted by FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, with teams like Botafogo, River Plate, and Wydad AC mentioned as potential destinations.
However, Ronaldo declined these alternatives and has chosen to remain with Al Nassr for an extended period.
The club released an online video titled "The story continues," showing Ronaldo strolling along a pristine beach lined with palm trees while declaring, "Al Nassr, forever."
His fresh two-year agreement will keep him at the club through the 2026–27 season, at which time the superstar will be over 42 years old and entering his 25th year as a professional footballer.
Referencing his earlier statements, Ronaldo shared a social media message stating: "A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let's make history together."
This major announcement coincides with Al Nassr's decision to dismiss head coach Stefano Pioli and his coaching team this week.
The former manager of Lazio, Inter, and AC Milan failed to achieve his goal of securing the Saudi Pro League championship after taking charge last September. Al Nassr has claimed the domestic title just once in the past decade and hasn't won it since Ronaldo's arrival.
Following a disappointing third-place finish in the previous season, the team will compete in the AFC Champions League Two for 2025–26, which serves as Asia's counterpart to the UEFA Europa League.