Saudi Pro League giants Al-Nassr have finally addressed the future of their star forward, Cristiano Ronaldo. On Thursday, the club’s sporting director, Fernando Hierro, spoke openly about whether the legendary striker will stay or leave. Fans have been buzzing with rumors, especially with reports linking Ronaldo to Al-Nassr’s rivals, Al Hilal, as he aims to play in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

But Hierro made it clear that the club is doing everything they can to keep the 40-year-old Portuguese star, whom he called a national treasure. Ronaldo’s current two-year contract is ending this summer, and he will become a free agent. In his time at Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has been prolific—scoring 93 goals in just 105 appearances.

Still, the Portugal captain is frustrated that the team hasn’t won any trophies despite his impressive performance. Al-Nassr finished third in the league this season. Hierro confirmed ongoing talks with Ronaldo about a contract renewal.

“From the start, Ronaldo’s presence has been part of a national project. He’s a huge phenomenon in football history and has helped raise the profile of the league. We are in contact to extend his contract and hope he stays with us,” Hierro said (via Al Nassr Zone on X).

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones has called on his former club to consider signing Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez to strengthen their goalkeeping department under new manager Ruben Amorim. Jones praised the Argentine shot-stopper, pointing out his wealth of experience and quality between the sticks.

“I really like him. He’s a solid goalkeeper with a lot of experience,” Jones said in an interview with OLBG, as reported by Metro. “When I think about the impact David De Gea had at United—how many games he helped us win—Martinez has that same kind of presence.”

He added that bringing Martinez in would be a smart move, depending on whether United want to stick with Andre Onana or go for someone more seasoned. “If the club decides to move for Martinez, it would be a strong addition. It just depends on whether they’re going for experience or someone younger they can build up.”

Martinez, who previously played for Arsenal, has been the subject of transfer speculation, with several clubs reportedly interested in snapping him up this summer, including sides from the Saudi Pro League.

Former Tottenham striker Ahmed ‘Mido’ Hossam has opened up on why Cristiano Ronaldo struggles with coaches. Mido believes Ronaldo’s biggest issue is that his strong personality tends to overshadow the coaches he works with, making it hard for managers to lead effectively. He contrasted Ronaldo with Karim Benzema, saying Benzema respects the coach’s authority and understands his role, which makes working with him smoother.

Ronaldo, known for being outspoken on and off the pitch, famously clashed with Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag during their time together. Now at Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s future is uncertain after hinting he may leave the Saudi league.

Mido added that many top coaches would hesitate to work with Ronaldo, pointing out that even Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi wouldn’t want to manage Al-Nassr while Ronaldo is there. He also noted that Ronaldo only joined Al-Nassr after European clubs stopped showing interest, highlighting the challenges the 40-year-old faces in the final stages of his career.