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.
South Africa’s women’s national team coach, Desiree Ellis, has confidently stated that her team is ready to take down Nigeria once again as both sides gear up for their semi-final clash in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The much-anticipated match between Banyana Banyana and the Super Falcons is scheduled for Tuesday, with high stakes as a spot in the final is up for grabs.
Despite Nigeria’s stronger overall record in past meetings, South Africa won their last WAFCON encounter in 2022, edging the Super Falcons 1-0 in Morocco. That result, Ellis believes, gives her team the belief and strategy needed to win again.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Ellis said they understand what it takes to defeat Nigeria and are fully prepared for the challenge. She added that her players know the weight of this fixture and are determined to come out on top.
Victor Osimhen is set to touch down in Istanbul on Tuesday to reunite with Galatasaray fans, marking a major moment for both the club and its supporters. Turkish football pundit Hakan Gündoğar revealed that the Nigerian forward will be arriving on Tuesday and is expected to be welcomed in grand fashion by the Galatasaray faithful, with fans planning one of the most memorable receptions in the club’s history.
Galatasaray and Napoli have reportedly finalized all financial details, including bank guarantees and a two-part payment plan for the striker’s permanent move. The Turkish champions will cover Osimhen’s €75 million release clause in two instalments, €40 million upfront and €35 million within the next year.
Osimhen had spent last season on loan at Galatasaray and made the decision to remain in Turkey, turning down massive offers from Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal in the process. His return is seen as a major boost for Galatasaray ahead of the new campaign.
Ademola Lookman has turned down a move to Napoli, making it clear he prefers a switch to Inter Milan instead. According to reports from Italy, the Nigerian forward has already reached a personal agreement with Inter, signing off on a five-year deal worth €4.5 million per year.
However, Inter’s opening bid of €40 million was rejected by Atalanta, who are holding out for €50 million before letting their star man go. Meanwhile, Spanish giants Atletico Madrid are also said to be keeping tabs on the situation as the transfer saga heats up.
-
Entertainment21 hours agoTimini Egbuson Says He’s Not a Womaniser and is Too Busy for Relationships
-
Sport3 hours agoAdemola Lookman Turns Down Napoli and Wants to Join Inter Milan Instead
-
Sport3 hours agoVictor Osimhen to Land in Istanbul on Tuesday for Galatasaray Welcome
-
Entertainment3 hours agoTXT Set to Drop New Album “The Star Chapter: TOGETHER” on July 21
-
Sport3 hours agoSouth Africa Coach Says They are Ready to Beat Nigeria in the WAFCON Clash
-
Entertainment2 hours agoBTS New Live Album Hits 14.5 Million Streams in Just One Day on Spotify
-
Entertainment2 hours agoCharli XCX and George Daniel Get Married in a Quiet London Ceremony