As the FIFA Club World Cup nears, speculation surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s future has taken center stage. The expanded 32-team tournament, set to begin in June 2025, will see top clubs from around the world battle for supremacy. With Manchester City and Chelsea representing the Premier League. Among the wildest recent rumors: Cristiano Ronaldo could make a sensational short-term move to Stamford Bridge just to feature in the tournament.
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Ronaldo to Chelsea for Club World Cup? critics unconvinced
With Chelsea set to compete in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States starting June 14, 2025, rumors have emerged suggesting the club might consider a short-term deal to bring in Ronaldo. The 40-year-old Portuguese icon, currently playing for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, would technically be available for a brief stint if an agreement could be made.
Chelsea, drawn into Group D alongside Flamengo and ES Tunis, kick off their campaign on June 16 against the winner of Club América vs LAFC. The club is still seeking a reliable No.9, but multiple voices in the football community have cautioned against turning to Ronaldo.
Former Chelsea winger Florent Malouda told Racing Tipster:
“I remember when the owners took over, they were assessing the possibility of signing him. It would be more like a marketing and media coup than anything, really, in terms of sports logic.”
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“It would be difficult to integrate him into the team, it would put pressure on the manager… it depends if you’re looking at other metrics, or if you want to help the team in the long term, and to keep stability in the squad.”
Former England and Tottenham star Chris Waddle echoed similar concerns, calling the move a potential "publicity stunt."
Speaking to yaysweepstakes.com, he said:
“Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Chelsea, it would be great publicity for the football club, but no. I've seen him play for Al-Nassr... he doesn't really run around a lot.”
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