Cristiano Ronaldo endured a night to forget in the United Arab Emirates as Al-Nassr were dismantled 4-0 by Al-Ain in a shocking AFC Champions League Elite display. The Portuguese forward, who is chasing his 980th career goal, could only watch as his side were systematically picked apart by the two-times Asian champions.
Ivory Coast midfielder Seko Fofana has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a highly successful chapter with the Elephants. The 31-year-old former Manchester City academy prospect confirmed the news on social media following a career highlighted by continental glory.
Cristiano Ronaldo may be “slower” than he was, at 41 years of age, but Gus Poyet has told GOAL why the Portuguese GOAT can play for as long as he wants in the Saudi Pro League. The ex-Chelsea and Tottenham star has spent time coaching in the Middle East and sees no reason why a global superstar pursuing another notable milestone should consider hanging up his boots any time soon.
Saudi Pro League stars Sadio Mane and Julian Quinones have earned landmark nominations for the 2026 Ballon d'Or following superb domestic and international campaigns. The Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah forward duo lead a strong RSL contingent recognised by France Football, with goalkeepers Yassine Bounou and Edouard Mendy also shortlisted for the Yashin Trophy.
Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for his final shot at Asian glory in the AFC Champions League Elite with Al-Nassr. Manager Ange Postecoglou is set to manage the Portuguese superstar's workload, while winger Kingsley Coman could make a timely injury return.
The stage is set for what could be Cristiano Ronaldo’s final opportunity to conquer Asia as the Asian Champions League prepares to kick off next week. With the Saudi Pro League having invested billions to transform the regional landscape, Al-Nassr and their domestic rivals are determined to keep the continent's most prestigious trophy in Riyadh or Jeddah.
The “shared legacy” that exists between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi means that both men will want to reach 1,000 competitive career goals, former MLS star Shaka Hislop has told GOAL. CR7 is closest to hitting that milestone at present, while turning out for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, but a fellow GOAT on the books of Inter Miami is not far behind.
Cristiano Ronaldo transitioning into the Hollywood movie industry cannot be ruled out, Shaka Hislop has told GOAL, even if the Portuguese GOAT finds himself operating as “Vinnie Jones’ sidekick”. At 41 years of age, the Al-Nassr superstar is heading towards retirement and speculation is rife regarding what he will do next - with it possible that the big screen awaits.
Joao Felix was left furious following Al-Nassr's dramatic 2-1 defeat against rivals Al-Ittihad on Saturday evening, threatening to lift the lid on the Saudi Pro League. The Portuguese forward made the fiery outburst while walking towards the team bus, as Ange Postecoglou's side suffered their first league loss of the season.
Cristiano Ronaldo was caught on camera cheekily spying on tactical instructions held by opponent Danilo during a Saudi Pro League clash. The hilarious moment brought smiles to both players on the pitch, but Ronaldo was left frustrated as Al-Ittihad held on to hand Al-Nassr their first defeat of the season in a fiercely contested 2-1 thriller.
Ange Postecoglou has revealed that the opportunity to coach Cristiano Ronaldo was a major factor in his decision to take charge of Al Nassr. The Australian manager believes working with the Portuguese superstar adds another remarkable chapter to his own managerial journey.
Former Al-Nassr defender Alvaro Gonzalez has provided an interesting perspective on Cristiano Ronaldo's character away from the spotlight, describing the Portuguese icon as approachable behind closed doors. However, the Spaniard revealed that a dramatic switch occurs on the pitch, where the forward transforms into a fierce competitor driven to succeed.
Cristiano Ronaldo moved one step closer to an unprecedented milestone of 1,000 career goals after helping Al Nassr secure a crucial 2-1 victory over Al Taawoun. The forward’s latest strike in the 50th minute takes his career tally to 978 goals, pushing his team to the very top of the league table while extending an incredible run of consecutive scoring matches.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner threw a trademark strop after being withdrawn at half-time in his latest Saudi Pro League outing, but the manager's bravery paid off
Cristiano Ronaldo is fast closing in on 1,000 competitive career goals, but could the Portuguese GOAT retire once that milestone has been reached? Former Manchester United team-mate Giuseppe Rossi has attempted to answer that question for GOAL, with future questions being asked of the legendary frontman in Al-Nassr and Portugal camps.
Nigeria legend Jay-Jay Okocha has weighed in on the eternal GOAT debate by choosing Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo. The former playmaker highlighted a fundamental difference in style, describing the Argentine icon as a natural genius.
Mike Maignan’s long-term future at AC Milan has been cast into significant doubt following reports of the goalkeeper’s growing frustration with the club’s current trajectory. Despite holding the captain’s armband and being a central figure at San Siro, the Frenchman is reportedly considering his options as Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr prepare a move.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s relentless pursuit of footballing history has received significant public backing from his long-time former team-mate Nacho Fernandez. The veteran defender, who also plies his trade in Saudi Arabia, believes the Portuguese superstar is destined to reach the elusive 1,000-goal milestone.
Cristiano Ronaldo is being backed to make the move into Hollywood movies once his playing career comes to a close, with Mikael Silvestre telling GOAL that CR7 should have no problem cracking that industry “if Vinnie Jones can become an actor”. There is no indication that the Portuguese GOAT is ready to head for Los Angeles just yet, but a new challenge will be sought at some point in the not too distant future.
Al Nassr FC
