‘Staying in America with Lionel Messi’ – Cristiano Ronaldo MLS future prediction made by ex-Man Utd star amid talk of €200m Al-Nassr contract extension

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is expected to make that event – which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico – despite approaching his 40th birthday. Remarkable standards are being maintained by the all-time great.

There has been talk of Ronaldo’s contract at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr being extended for another year, on terms worth a reported €200 million (£168m/$206m) over 12 months. The evergreen frontman may decide to play on beyond that point, after figuring at a record-breaking sixth World Cup.

Ex-Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke believes his fellow former Red Devils star may be tempted to remain in MLS alongside his eternal rival, with the 1999 Treble winner telling Coin Casino: “Cristiano Ronaldo is an extremist and one of, if not the greatest player of all time. Ronaldo is doing everything he can to extend his career, he's defying the odds the play as long as possible. Ronaldo has a few months left on his contract, he may decide to extend his contract in the Saudi Pro League, he's still a top scorer there and is still one of the highest scorers in the world.

“I won't rule out Ronaldo going to the MLS, with the World Cup coming there, it may be another opportunity for him to feature in Portugal's squad and potentially win the competition. If he makes the team, I could see him staying in America and play against Lionel Messi's Inter Miami.”

Ronaldo has made no secret of the fact that he wants to reach 1,000 goals before considering retirement, so will prolong his career for as long as possible. That could mean reuniting with Messi, but the Argentine is yet to see an extension option for 2026 triggered by Inter Miami.