Cristiano Ronaldo makes U-turn on Al-Nassr future: Confirms decision to stay with club after Nations League triumph, contract expires on June 30

Cristiano Ronaldo made headlines as he led Portugal to the UEFA Nations League crown for a second time in his career. Besides the title triumph, the 40-year-old also turned heads for making a decision on his Al-Nassr future.

The Portuguese skipper was reportedly calling time on his career at Al-Nassr. The No 7 had earlier fueled rumours of his time at the Saudi Club coming to an end with the player posting on social media that "This chapter is over. The story? Still being written." However, it is now understood that the player is set to do the opposite and sign a new deal with the Faris Najd. After a rather underwhelming campaign, where Ronaldo's men missed out on the Saudi Pro League after finishing third behind Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal, the player has now made up his mind to sign a new deal at the club.

This means that the club will play no part in the AFC Champions League next season as well.The news of him staying was confirmed when the player made a blunt admission to reporters following the Nations League triumph. After confirming that several clubs were in the running for his signature, Ronaldo put an end to the chatter, as he confirmed his decision to stay. "Future? Nothing will change. Al Nassr? Yes," said the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

As things stand, his contract with the Saudi club is set to expire on June 30.

Despite not winning a trophy with Al-Nassr this season, the forward topped the goalscoring charts for his team in the league. His 25 goals in the season were second to none. In the AFC Champions League, Ronaldo's 8 goals helped him grab fifth spot among the list of top scorers.

After a thrilling win over Spain in the Nations League final in penalties, the forward will take some time off from the sport before returning to action in the World Cup qualifiers. Despite his 99 goals in 105 games for the club, Ronaldo has failed to steer Al-Nassr to major trophies barring the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023.

The player was pocketing $4,027,872 per week in his current contract and around $210 million per year. The specifics of his new deal are yet to be revealed.