Sport
Cristiano Ronaldo Turns Down Club World Cup Offer to Focus on Al-Nassr
Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly turned down an offer from River Plate head coach Marcelo Gallardo to join the Argentine side for the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Gallardo revealed that he personally reached out to Ronaldo through a mutual friend to explore the possibility of having the Portuguese star feature for River Plate in the tournament.
The two have a bit of history—Gallardo previously managed Ronaldo during a 2023 friendly in Saudi Arabia when he coached a Riyadh All-Stars team in a match against Paris Saint-Germain. Speaking ahead of River Plate’s clash with Monterrey, Gallardo told ESPN that their conversation earlier this year was casual but meaningful.
“In March, we spoke informally,” he said. “I asked if he would be interested in playing the Club World Cup. A player like him, who defined an era—it made sense to ask.” Gallardo added that Ronaldo appreciated the gesture and gave it serious thought but ultimately turned it down. The reason? He wanted to focus fully on getting ready for the new season with Al-Nassr.
Despite the rejection, Gallardo praised Ronaldo’s professionalism and character, saying they’ve kept a respectful relationship since their brief time working together. While fans won’t get to see Ronaldo in a River Plate shirt, the story shows the kind of admiration he still commands globally—even from clubs outside Europe.
Manchester United have released a list of players who are expected to leave the club during the summer transfer window.
A statement from the club listed the players as Jadon Sancho, Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia, Sonny Aljofree, James Bailey, and Malachi Sharpe.
It was noted that Casemiro enjoyed a strong season at the club and built an excellent reputation during his time with the team.
Meanwhile, Tyrell Malacia made 50 first-team appearances for Manchester United during his spell at the club.
Liverpool have released a list of players who are confirmed to leave the club this summer.
The list includes star players Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konaté. While some players are leaving, others have been offered new contracts.
The players who have been offered fresh terms include Kyle Kelly, Afolami Onanuga, Oliver O’Connor, Lucas Pitt, Ben Trueman, Matthew Wright, Prince Cisse, and Keyrol Figueroa.
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has urged Ademola Lookman to consider a move to Galatasaray.
It can be noted that Lookman recently completed a transfer to Atlético Madrid, and since then, many European clubs have shown interest in the player.
Osimhen then shared an encouraging message to the player, stating that he would be welcome at Galatasaray.
“We are waiting for you at Galatasaray. Come and be a part of this family.”
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