FIFA president hints Ronaldo could join Club World Cup

Infantino, speaking to popular streamer IShowSpeed, revealed that discussions are underway that could see Ronaldo join one of the 32 participating teams for the inaugural edition of the tournament, which kicks off next month in the United States.

“Cristiano Ronaldo might play in the Club World Cup,” Infantino said. “Some clubs are in talks, so if any club is interested in signing him, there's still time. It’ll be fun.”

FIFA confirmed on Wednesday that a special transfer window is in effect for teams taking part in the tournament, sparking speculation that a club might sign the 40-year-old Portuguese forward on a short-term basis, possibly via a loan deal.

While such a move would be unusual in modern football, it could be a strategic boost for FIFA, potentially raising global interest and ticket sales for the 63-match competition set across 11 U.S. cities. Questions remain about how many international fans will travel for the event.

A transfer could also set the stage for a high-profile reunion between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who will feature with Inter Miami—an invitee to the tournament despite not winning the MLS Cup.

Ronaldo has been loosely linked with several clubs, including Saudi side Al Hilal, Brazil's Palmeiras, and Moroccan team Wydad, though Wydad currently faces a FIFA transfer ban.

FIFA's revised regulations allow participating clubs to make signings from June 1–10 and again from June 27–July 3. According to a FIFA statement, the aim is to help players with expiring contracts find opportunities to compete in the tournament, reports UNB.