Huge Blow to Al Nassr as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Teammate Declines Contract Renewal Following Saudi League Disappointment- Reports

Having last won the league in 2018/19, this was expected to be the title-winning season for Al Nassr. In the end, it wasn’t meant to be, as Cristiano Ronaldo & Co. finished second behind Al Hilal. It’s not just the league they missed out on; Luis Castro’s side could possibly go the season trophyless! Hence, there is expected to be a whirlwind of changes at the club in terms of transfers. One prominent player has taken his future into his own and is reportedly set to exit the club.

As per reports, Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina will not be renewing his contract. The former Napoli man signed in 2022 and has had an injury-plagued spell in the country. An elbow injury kept him out for 43 games in 2023! Despite this, his quality shone throne whenever he played and he was a leader on the pitch alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. His performances during the title run-in were particularly impressive. Hence, there was a belief that he would extend the contract, which runs out in 2024. However, it looks like the King Cup final could be his last game for the Knights of Najd. A commanding performance could go a long way in ending Al Nassr’s trophy drought.

Ospina might not be the only star out on the move. Star defender Aymeric Laporte also revealed his intentions to leave the club for a return to Europe. Considering the less-than-excellent season, it is natural that many players are evaluating their future in Saudi. But one star who looks to stay put is Cristiano Ronaldo.

A positive update on Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract situation

Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr ends in 2025. Hence, the time has come for the two parties to decide the future course of action. As per reports on X, CR7 could be set to stay for another season in Riyadh. This means that the iconic superstar will continue till 2026 when he is in his 40s. The timeframe does make a lot of sense, considering it is a World Cup year. Ronaldo will want to be in top fitness and rhythm and this can be achieved by committing to the Knights of Najd.

However, the situation of Cristiano Ronaldo’s strike partner, Sadio Mane, is different. The Senegalese star has offers from Al Qadsiah FC and Turkish side Galatasaray. A move to Galatasaray means that Mane will return to Europe. Notably, Galatasaray will be competing in the upcoming UCL, something that Al Nassr can’t offer Mane. Will he choose the David Ospina route? Or would Mane stay put like CR7? An interesting summer awaits at Al Nassr.