Despite global anticipation and behind-the-scenes maneuvering, Cristiano Ronaldo will not feature in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, marking a rare absence for one of football’s most iconic figures. Not even the combined influence of Saudi Arabia’s sporting ambitions or FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s public appeals could engineer a last-minute appearance for the Portuguese superstar.
⚽ Why Ronaldo Missed Out: Al Nassr’s Failure to Qualify
Ronaldo’s club, Al Nassr, failed to meet FIFA’s qualification criteria for the revamped 32-team tournament. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) was allotted four slots, but Al Nassr neither won the AFC Champions League in the 2021–2024 cycle nor ranked high enough in the AFC club coefficient standings.
🔄 Transfer Window Tease Falls Flat
FIFA even created a special mini transfer window to allow short-term signings for the tournament. Infantino publicly hinted at Ronaldo’s availability, saying,
“If any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup…”
Speculation swirled about a potential short-term move to Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia’s top club and sole Club World Cup representative. But the idea was quickly dismissed due to the fierce rivalry between Al Hilal and Al Nassr—even though both are backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.
💬 Al Hilal CEO: “It’s Counter-Intuitive”
Al Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada told the BBC:
“As much as I respect Ronaldo, bringing the biggest player of your biggest opponent—even for three weeks—is completely counter-intuitive”.
🌍 Saudi Arabia’s Sporting Push Continues
Saudi Arabia has invested billions to reshape global sport—hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, acquiring Newcastle United, and luring stars like Neymar and Karim Benzema. Yet, Ronaldo’s absence from the Club World Cup underscores the limits of even vast financial power when it comes to football’s competitive structure.
