Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ongoing Quest for Trophies in Saudi Arabia and Beyond

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most decorated football players in history, continues to face challenges in adding new trophies to his collection since his move to Saudi Arabia. Despite his impressive goal-scoring record, Ronaldo has not achieved significant silverware with his current club, Al-Nassr. In the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo has scored 55 goals in 56 appearances, but Al-Nassr has not managed to win the league title, with Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal taking the honors in the previous seasons. This season, Al-Nassr trails league leaders Al-Hilal by six points after 10 matches.

In other competitions, Ronaldo’s side has also fallen short. In the King’s Cup, Al-Nassr lost the final to Al-Hilal last year, despite Ronaldo scoring his penalty in the shootout. The match ended 1-1 and Al-Hilal won 5-4 on penalties. The Saudi Super Cup also eluded Ronaldo, as Al-Nassr was beaten 4-1 by Al-Hilal in the final, with Ronaldo scoring but expressing frustration with his teammates.

Ronaldo’s experience in the AFC Champions League has been limited but unsuccessful so far. Al-Nassr was eliminated in the quarter-final last season by UAE side Al Ain on penalties, with Ronaldo scoring his spot-kick but his teammates failing to convert theirs.

On the international stage, Ronaldo remains motivated to win the World Cup, a trophy that has eluded him throughout his career. Despite downplaying its importance, there is speculation that he may continue with the Portuguese national team until the 2026 World Cup to make one final attempt at winning the tournament.

Ronaldo’s career is marked by numerous achievements, but there are several notable trophies he has never won, including the Confederations Cup, the Primeira Liga with Sporting, and the Taca de Portugal. These gaps in his trophy cabinet highlight the ongoing challenges and ambitions of one of football’s greatest players.