Cristiano Ronaldo rules OUT sensational Club World Cup appearance despite 'talks and proposals' as Al-Nassr superstar prepares to U-turn on potential exit by signing new contract

Speaking ahead of Portugal's appearance in the UEFA Nations League final against Spain, Ronaldo was asked to clarify his situation regarding the Club World Cup amid rumours of signing with a new side specifically to play in the newly-expanded tournament. It is, he said, "almost decided" he won't be there, despite offers coming in.

With an expiring Al-Nassr contract, the possibility of Ronaldo featuring at the Club World Cup - even if just on a month-long contract - gathered pace when FIFA president Gianni Infantino teased it in a recent video with YouTuber and streamer Speed. "Cristiano Ronaldo might play for one of the teams as well. There are discussions with some clubs," he said at the time. Al-Hilal, Botafogo and Monterrey were most heavily linked.

The presence of even a 40-year-old Ronaldo would have been a major marketing boost. FIFA had already shoehorned Lionel Messi into the event, somewhat controversially handing the designated 'host' spot to Inter Miami on account of their 2024 Supporters' Shield win. Many felt that place should have gone to overall MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy instead.

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"It's almost decided that I will not take part at the FIFA Club World Cup, despite receiving many invitations and proposals," Ronaldo said on Saturday in a press conference. "There have been talks, contacts…but you have to think about short, medium and long-term."

When Ronaldo took to social media last month to say "this chapter is over", a split from Al-Nassr after two-and-a-half years looked the likely path. But with no Club World Cup cameo and reports of an agreement over a new contract in place, he looks increasingly likely to stay. Ronaldo has no immediate plans to retire and is still chasing becoming the first player to score 1,000 official senior career goals - he currently has 937, which means 63 to go.