Al Hilal’s Chief Executive Officer, Esteve Calzada, has poured cold water on recent speculation linking the club with a sensational short-term move for Cristiano Ronaldo, dismissing the idea as unrealistic and illogical.
Despite rumors suggesting that the Portugal star, who is nearing the end of his contract with Al Nassr – was keen to feature in the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States, Calzada made it clear that Al Hilal was never seriously considering the move.
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) June 15, 2025
In an interview with the BBC, Calzada explained:
“We don’t usually comment on individual player situations, especially because our club’s name often gets used when players or agents are trying to improve their deals elsewhere or push for a transfer.”
The club executive highlighted the impracticality of bringing in a marquee player from their domestic rivals, even if both clubs fall under the umbrella of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
“As much as I have the utmost respect for Ronaldo and his legendary status, it wouldn’t make sense for us to sign the biggest star from our biggest competitor,” Calzada added. “Even more so when it would only be for a three or four-week tournament. That kind of decision can have long-term consequences.”
He also pointed out the challenges of the current transfer window, calling it “unusual” and “very short,” making quick but impactful decisions even more complicated.
Al Hilal to Target Big Names in Next Window
With the initial Club World Cup transfer window now closed and the second phase open, Al Hilal is expected to be active in the market again. The club has been linked with several top-tier players, including Victor Osimhen and Darwin Núñez.
Calzada acknowledged the club’s ongoing interest in strengthening the squad but also emphasized the challenges they’ve faced.
“We explored a few options to reinforce the team, but some players were already in holiday mode, and others had unrealistic financial expectations,” he said. “That said, we believe our current squad is highly competitive.”
Al Hilal will return to the transfer market following the Club World Cup with continued ambition to bolster their roster.
The Saudi giants will kick off their Club World Cup journey against Real Madrid on June 18, followed by a clash with RB Salzburg on June 22, and will wrap up their group stage against Pachuca on June 27.
Also Read: FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Full Squads, and Probable Line-ups For Todays Clash
