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.
Super Falcons player, Oluwatosin Demehin, has reportedly signed a contract extension with Galatasaray Club.
It can be recalled that the defender first joined the club during a free transfer that occurred in September 2024. The transfer was also noted to be for one year; however, it has now been reported that the player has signed an extension contract with the team.
Demehin made an appearance in 26 games and has a record of one goal while playing for Galatasaray.
Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has opened up about his frustrations at the club, claiming that “promises have been broken” as he pushes for a move elsewhere. Liverpool recently had a major bid for the Swedish forward turned down by the Magpies, and with his future still uncertain, Isak has found himself sidelined by manager Eddie Howe.
After missing the PFA Awards on Tuesday, Isak broke his silence in a statement, saying, “I’ve stayed quiet for a long time while others spoke. That silence allowed people to share their version of events, even though it doesn’t reflect what was actually agreed behind closed doors”.
“Promises were made, and the club has known my position for a long time. Acting now as if these issues are just appearing is misleading. When trust is broken and promises are not kept, the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things stand for me right now, and why a change is the best move for everyone, not just me.”
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has made history by becoming the first Premier League player to win the PFA Footballer of the Year award. The Egyptian forward now joins the elite company of two-time winners like Gareth Bale, Thierry Henry, and Cristiano Ronaldo, but he’s the first to achieve this feat in the Premier League era.
Earlier this year, Salah also claimed the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year honor, cementing his incredible season. Salah’s campaign was nothing short of spectacular, netting 29 goals and providing 19 assists as Liverpool surged to the Premier League title.
He edged out teammates and rivals including Alexis Mac Allister, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, Arsenal’s Declan Rice, and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. Reflecting on his achievement, Salah said, “Coming from Egypt and reaching this level, making history today, fills me with immense pride.”
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