The former Russia national team forward Karyaka commented on Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Saudi club Al-Nasr, a decision that has stirred conversations across European and Middle Eastern football circles. According to Karyaka, at 37 Ronaldo found himself at a crossroads, pointing out that the decision was often shaped by financial realities rather than the appeal of a competitive European project. He noted that Ronaldo is not the first star to take this path, and not the last, emphasizing the lure of generous terms even when a European option might still exist. The core point: money opened doors that the right European club could not always match.
Ronaldo agreed to a contract with Al-Nasr that runs through 2025. The press has widely reported that the Portuguese icon could be earning about €200 million per year with the Saudi club, a figure that underlines the scale of compensation in the region and its impact on the global football economy. The signing marks a high-profile shift in Ronaldo’s career, one that signals broader trends in player mobility and the growing appeal of Middle East football markets. Reports and discussions around the deal have circulated for months, highlighting not only the sport’s competitive aspect but also the commercial opportunities tied to such moves. , .
Ronaldo, 37, had been without a club since November of the previous year. In a candid interview conducted ahead of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, he expressed dissatisfaction with parts of Manchester United’s coaching staff and organizational direction. This interview preceded Manchester United’s decision to terminate their contract with Ronaldo by mutual consent, a move that reflected both the club’s strategic priorities and Ronaldo’s own professional stance. The outcome allowed both parties to explore fresh directions, with Ronaldo eventually aligning with Al-Nasr and the club looking to capitalize on his global popularity and on-field pedigree. The conversation around the transfer has continued to shape discussions on player autonomy, the business of football, and how leagues outside Europe are increasingly influencing the sport’s global map. .
Gary Neville, a longtime Manchester United figure, weighed in on the transfer, offering his perspective on how Ronaldo’s exit could affect the team and the broader league. Neville’s views have been part of a wider chorus that considers both the strategic implications for Manchester United and the evolving landscape of international football where players weigh financial incentives against competitive ambitions. The transfer is viewed by many as a defining moment for the Saudi Pro League and its growing ability to attract marquee talent. Analysts point to the wider pattern of overseas clubs courting players who remain influential well into their 30s, challenging traditional ideas about peak performance windows and longevity in elite football. .