Cristiano Ronaldo Exit: Al Nassr Response amidst Speculation

Al Nassr sporting director, Fernando Hierro has reponded claims that Cristiano Ronaldo had already decided to exit the Saudi Pro League club, insisting that the team are working on renewing the his expiring contract.

Fernando’s highly anticipated press conference was played out to the backdrop of feverish speculation surrounding the 40-year-old’s future. Reports from various outlets suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo will likely exit the club before his contract expired, so it sparked this reaction from the club.

“I have to be positive. I don’t think Ronaldo will leave Al Nassr. In any case, we are working hard on all aspects,” the former Real Madrid centre-back – Fernando Hierro told assembled reporters, as quoted by Asharq Al-Awsat.

“Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr runs until the end of June 30. We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us, and there are many clubs interested in signing him”.

There were suggestions that Ronaldo could leave Al Nassr but remain in Saudi Arabia, with a move to Al Hilal floated as the Kingdom’s giants have qualified for this summer’s Club World Cup.

“Ronaldo’s presence from the beginning is a national project. He is a huge phenomenon in the history of football and has helped the league grow. We are in contact to renew his contract and hope he continues with us.

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“There will be changes to the team, including some foreign players, and there will also be major changes among the local players,” Fernando admitted.

Ronaldo has been reliably prolific in Saudi Arabia, amassing 112 goals and assists in 105 appearances across all competitions. However, this steady stream of impressive statistics has not translated to any major silverware.

After finishing third in this season’s Saudi Pro League – a distant 13 points adrift of Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad champions – Al Nassr missed out on qualification for the AFC Champions League, as well.