Ronaldo’s Potential Loan to Al-Hilal Raises Eyebrows

Speculation had emerged linking the 40-year-old with a surprise switch to Al-Hilal after FIFA opened a special transfer window earlier this month to accommodate the revamped Club World Cup format. Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr ends in June, and both Riyadh-based clubs fall under the umbrella of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), further fueling the rumors.

But in an interview with BBC Sport, Al-Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada firmly shut down the suggestion.

“We usually don’t comment on player situations,” Calzada said. “Our name often gets used when players or agents are trying to push better deals with their current clubs or force a move. This has been a strange window — short and unpredictable. You don’t want to make a decision for one tournament that could affect your squad for the next two or three years.”

He continued: “As much as we all admire Ronaldo and his legacy, it would be completely illogical to bring in the most iconic player from your biggest rival — especially just for three or four weeks.”

Calzada also touched on the club’s cautious approach to mid-season signings.

“We did explore strengthening the team, but many players were already in ‘holiday mode’ or demanding unrealistic fees. That said, we’re confident in the competitiveness of our current squad,” he noted. “We’ll enter the traditional summer transfer window with strong ambitions to further reinforce the team.”