Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to play in Europe again, says ex-Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen, with the Portuguese committed to a new two-year contract at Al-Nassr. He is already 40 years of age, with the “spectacular” money on offer in the Middle East expected to ensure that CR7 sees out his record-shattering playing career in the Saudi Pro League.
Trendsetter: Ronaldo first superstar to head for Saudi
Ronaldo linked up with Al-Nassr in 2023 having seen his contract terminated by Premier League giants at Old Trafford. He started a new trend when heading to a division that was lacking in household names.
AdvertisementGettyRonaldo contract: Two-year extension signed
There are now many on show in Saudi Arabia, with Ronaldo sticking around after agreeing an extension to lucrative terms that will take him beyond his 42nd birthday. Goals continue to flow for the former United, Real Madrid and Juventus superstar.
Return to Sporting? CR7 generated speculation
It is expected that Ronaldo, despite generating talk of returning to his roots at Sporting, will hang up his boots as an Al-Nassr player. No club in Europe would want to fund the terms required to bring an ageing icon onto their books.
GettyMeulensteen predicts future for Ronaldo
Meulensteen, who worked with CR7 in Manchester, told football betting site BetVictor: “I can't see Cristiano Ronaldo in Europe again. Not now. I think he's made that conscious decision. There was a void when he left Manchester United, and he still was keen to stay in Europe and play in the Champions League.
“There was a brief interest from Bayern Munich, but nobody really took a chance on him. That's why he went to Saudi Arabia. This is his fourth season in Saudi.
“The money is obviously spectacular and important to him, which is good. But he must still find the level interesting enough to play at, as well as the Asian Champions League. It keeps him ticking over for Portugal, and I think that's one of the most important things for him.”
