Cristiano Ronaldo has all but ruled out his participation in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, saying he has “practically decided” not to play in the tournament despite receiving several offers from clubs taking part.
Speaking to reporters in Munich ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League final against Spain, Ronaldo told Reuters, “It’s a decision practically made on my part not to go to the Club World Cup, but I’ve had quite a few invitations to go.”
He added that while the offers were tempting, not everything needed to be entertained. “Some things make sense to talk about, other things don’t,” Ronaldo said, emphasizing the need to think about his career in the short, medium, and long term.
In comments to ESPN, when first asked about the tournament, the Portuguese legend brushed off the speculation, saying, “This is irrelevant right now. It makes no sense to talk about anything other than the national team.”
Ronaldo’s statement deals a setback to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had hoped to attract major global stars to the expanded 32-team Club World Cup kicking off on June 14.
Despite nearing the twilight of his career, the 40-year-old remains in top form. Just days earlier, he netted his 137th international goal in Portugal’s 2-1 semifinal win over Germany, helping his team reach the final.
While Ronaldo didn’t completely shut the door, his comments strongly suggest that fans won’t be seeing him in action at this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
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