The president of Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal claims Cristiano Ronaldo‘s summer move fell through due to registration issues rather than his desire to stay in Europe.
Ronaldo was eager to leave Manchester United after the club failed to qualify for the Champions League at the end of last season. Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea were all mentioned as possible destinations, but all three backed out of a deal.
He was also the subject of Saudi Arabian interest, with Ronaldo rumored to have received a nine-figure two-year contract offer. However, he was said to want to stay in Europe at the time.
However, speaking to Thamanya, Al-Hilal chief Fahad ben Nafel revealed that the club was in talks with Ronaldo, though personal terms were not the reason for the transfer falling through.
“Yes, we bargained with Ronaldo. The issue was not one of money or principle; Al-Hilal can bring in world stars; rather, it was a decision of the Sports Arbitration Centre that prevented us from registering the players “He stated.
“Despite the decision to ban, we did not stop negotiating with the players, but we delayed entering the final stage of the negotiations until the ban was lifted.”
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Despite this failed move, Ronaldo is still sought after in the Saudi game.
“We would love to see a player like Cristiano Ronaldo playing in the Saudi league,” Saudi Arabian Football Federation president Yasser Al-Miseha recently stated.
“It would generate a lot of positive feedback and would be big news for everyone.” “I’m sure everyone is aware of Cristiano Ronaldo’s achievements and records, but also as a player who is a great role model.” ‘Why not?’ I reason.
Of course, it would be a very expensive deal, but our clubs’ revenues have been increasing in recent years. Some big players who used to play in the Premier League have already moved to the Saudi league. Cristiano Ronaldo is a player I admire, and I’d like to see him play in Saudi Arabia.”
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