The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular soccer events in recent history. Set to unfold across the United States from June 14 to July 13, the newly expanded 32-team format is promising elite matchups, massive global audiences, and perhaps the most talent-rich player pool ever assembled.
Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid, and many other stars are among the headline stars already confirmed for the tournament. But one legendary name has been conspicuously absent from the promotional material and build-up: Cristiano Ronaldo. As his long-time rivalry with Messi continues to define an era, fans and pundits alike have asked the same question—will CR7 be there? The answer, after weeks of cryptic posts, transfer rumors, and speculation, has finally arrived.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s current club, Al-Nassr, failed to qualify for the Club World Cup after a disappointing quarterfinal exit in the 2023-24 AFC Champions League at the hands of Al Ain. That loss proved fatal to the Saudi side’s Club World Cup hopes, especially given the tight qualification criteria for Asian teams.
Under the tournament’s structure, only four clubs from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) earned spots: Al Hilal (2021 winners), Urawa Red Diamonds (2022), Al Ain (2024), and Ulsan HD, which earned their place based on a four-year club ranking system.
Al-Nassr placed fifth in that ranking, behind the aforementioned four clubs, effectively eliminating Ronaldo’s direct pathway into the tournament.
Loophole appeared: FIFA’s transfer twist
Enter FIFA’s wildcard rule: a special 10-day transfer window opened specifically for participating clubs, allowing them to sign free agents or short-term deals before the tournament begins. This surprise provision turned the Club World Cup into a mini transfer frenzy, prompting many teams to explore blockbuster loan signings.
Suddenly, the door was wide open for Ronaldo to take the global stage once more. Reports swirled that Manchester City, Chelsea, Inter, and even LAFC were exploring temporary deals. The speculation intensified when Ronaldo, who turns 40 this year, posted a cryptic message on social media after the Saudi season concluded: “This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all.”
His contract with the Saudi side expires on June 30, and as of early June, no renewal has been officially announced. Suitors like Wydad, Botafogo, and even Al-Hilal were rumored to have approached him. Still, the question remained: Would he make one last leap to join Messi, Mbappe, and company on the world stage?
What did Ronaldo say?
This Saturday, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo finally ended the speculation.In comments shared by Fabrizio Romano, Ronaldo put the rumors to rest: “It’s practically decided, I will not be at the Club World Cup”.
“It’s almost decided that I will not take part at the FIFA Club World Cup despite receiving many invitations and proposals… the decision is almost made on my side”,he added. “There have been talks, contacts… but you can’t be at all competitions, you’ve to think about short, medium and long term. So despite approaches, it’s decided”.
Despite a wave of offers and clear demand for his presence, the 40-year-old veteram has decided against participating in the tournament, closing the door on a potential reunion with European giants or an MLS cameo alongside Messi.
