Cristiano Ronaldo has explained that his choice to remain with Al Nassr and not participate in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup was mainly motivated by his ambition to be in peak condition for what could potentially be a record-breaking sixth appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a video message shared on Instagram by Al Nassr after announcing his new two-year contract extension, the 40-year-old Portuguese football icon revealed that he had received several offers to join different teams for the Club World Cup this summer but decided to decline them in favor of focusing on rest and targeted preparation.
“I had some offers to play [Club] World Cup but I think it didn’t make sense because I prefer to have a good rest, a good preparation,” Ronaldo explained.
He elaborated further, saying, “This season will be very long because it’s a World Cup season, at the end of the season. So I want to be ready not only for Al Nassr but also for the national team.”
The legendary forward, who recently added another trophy to his collection by winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal after a thrilling penalty shootout against Spain, stressed the importance of carefully managing his fitness levels and maintaining his top form as he prepares for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
If he is selected to represent Portugal in 2026, Ronaldo — alongside his long-time rival Lionel Messi — could become one of the first footballers in history to participate in six FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Ronaldo already holds the unique record of being the only male player to have scored in five different World Cup editions, highlighting his incredible longevity and consistent performance on the global stage.
His new contract with Al Nassr will keep him playing in the Saudi Pro League until at least June 2027, potentially allowing him to continue competing professionally until the age of 42, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest and most durable athletes of all time.