Cristiano Ronaldo's MLS Dream: Four American Clubs Battle for Soccer's Biggest Superstar
The future of Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr remains uncertain, with Major League Soccer emerging as a possible destination for the iconic Portuguese superstar to continue his career.
The former vocal advocate and prominent figure of the Saudi Pro League has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with what he perceives as preferential treatment toward arch-rivals Al Hilal, who recently acquired his ex-Real Madrid colleague Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad, causing significant anger for Ronaldo.
Not all observers have expressed understanding for Ronaldo, who moved to Al Nassr after a chaotic second departure from Manchester United in December 2022. However, Ronaldo's potential exit from the Saudi Pro League remains purely theoretical at present, though sources indicate the 41-year-old superstar is contemplating his options.
Additionally, MLS franchises have started showing interest, making preliminary contact with Ronaldo's representatives about a possible transfer to America, according to The Times.
While nothing definitive exists currently, and any prospective transfer would probably necessitate Ronaldo accepting a substantial salary reduction, here are four possible MLS destinations that could secure the football legend, listed by likelihood of success.
4. Inter Miami
Is such a scenario even possible?
The prospect of Ronaldo teaming up with his eternal rival Lionel Messi has been a dream cherished by countless supporters worldwide. The vision of these two generational talents celebrating side by side appeared impossible for years, but might Inter Miami be where dreams become reality?
If Ronaldo's recent outburst that clouded his future had occurred weeks earlier, Miami would rank much higher on this list. The Herons possessed an available designated player position following the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, but that slot has now been occupied by Mexican national team forward Germán Berterame.
This signing leaves the defending MLS titleholders with limited flexibility regarding attempts to acquire Ronaldo—or any other marquee signing.
However, David Beckham and Miami's leadership have demonstrated ingenuity in finding innovative methods to construct and strengthen their squad since Messi's arrival in 2023, and this opportunity might prove too tempting to ignore without examining every possible solution.
Yet, would both superstars welcome the prospect of collaboration, dividing the attention? Probably not. This factor, combined with the existing limitations the Herons must navigate, keeps this ultimate fantasy scenario firmly in the realm of imagination.
3. Sporting Kansas City
During Ronaldo's search for a new team after leaving Manchester United in 2022, Sporting Kansas City made a serious attempt to sign him before his eventual transfer to Al Nassr. Four years later, they might revive that pursuit in their quest to regain relevance.
Sporting Kansas City represents one of MLS's most storied and traditional franchises, but they're recovering from a disappointing 2025 campaign that left them at the bottom of the Western Conference table.
The organization recently experienced a significant ownership transition, with plans to restore the glory days of the early 2010s. Kansas City importantly maintains Ronaldo's discovery rights following their 2022–23 pursuit, and new majority owner Peter Mallouk could make no bigger statement than securing one of football's all-time greats.
While Kansas City possesses an available DP position, they require extensive reconstruction, which might complicate any Ronaldo pursuit. Moreover, the concept of the attention-seeking superstar concluding his career in Missouri seems almost impossible to imagine.
2. San Diego FC
Although completing just their debut MLS campaign, San Diego FC has already established itself as an appealing destination for international talent due to their vibrant location and impressive early performance.
Led by head coach Mikey Varas, San Diego reached the Western Conference championship game during their remarkable first MLS season in 2025. The squad already shows tremendous promise, and Ronaldo could provide the missing element to create a contemporary MLS powerhouse.
Additionally, record acquisition and San Diego's inaugural DP signing, Hirving "Chucky" Lozano, appears headed for departure. Lozano's exit seems inevitable, creating additional space—San Diego already maintains one open DP slot—for a significant addition.
Mohamed Salah's name has previously surfaced in discussions, further suggesting San Diego's ambition to secure a major star. Should Ronaldo become available, the emerging border-city MLS franchise could become a serious contender in pursuing the Portuguese legend.