Could Cristiano Ronaldo make a sensational move to a North African club for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup? That’s the question stirring soccer circles after a cryptic video featuring the Portuguese flag appeared on a Moroccan team’s social media account, igniting speculation across fanbases.
Could Cristiano Ronaldo make a sensational move to a North African club for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup? That’s the question stirring soccer circles after a cryptic video featuring the Portuguese flag appeared on a Moroccan team’s social media account, igniting speculation across fanbases.
With the Club World Cup set to kick off on June 14 in the United States, and the Portuguese legend’s future at Al-Nassr uncertain, whispers of a dramatic short-term move have become louder. But amid the excitement and theories, the club in question has now responded to the swirling rumors.
It all began with a short video posted to a Moroccan club’s official channels. The teaser prominently displayed the Portuguese flag, prompting fans and pundits alike to ask the unthinkable: Is Cristiano Ronaldo coming to Morocco?
Social media immediately lit up with speculation, fueled by a report from Marca, the Spanish outlet known for its close coverage of Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo. The outlet claimed that the club, having secured qualification for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, was exploring the possibility of signing Ronaldo on a short-term basis.
🇵🇹🤝🏼⏳#DimaWydad pic.twitter.com/f9AIo3s9eo
— Wydad Athletic Club (@WACofficiel) May 21, 2025
“The video sparked a frenzy online, with fans believing the Portuguese flag was a clear hint at a blockbuster move,” Marca reported. But it now appears that the teaser was likely promoting a major friendly against Porto, set to take place at Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca on May 31.
Club responds to rumors
The mystery team is none other than Wydad Athletic Club, one of Africa’s most historic and passionate soccer institutions. Wydad, often referred to as “The Red Castle,” is set to represent Morocco in the expanded 32-team Club World Cup. Their group includes Manchester City, Juventus, and Al Ain, making their path daunting.
While the notion of signing Ronaldo stirred immense excitement, Wydad officials were quick to pour cold water on the rumors. In comments reported by Yallakora, technical director Hassan Benabicha denied any official contact. “The links to Ronaldo are untrue,” he reportedly said. “We are planning to sign players at a distinguished level to strengthen the team, but there have been no talks with Cristiano.”
A separate report by Morocco’s Sabahagadir quoted club president Hicham Ait Menna, who was even more direct: “The rumors are not based on reality. Financially, such a deal is beyond our reach.”
Ronaldo, currently earning around $18.7 million per month at Al-Nassr, would be far too expensive for the Moroccan champions, whose budget—even with Club World Cup exposure—remains modest by European or Saudi standards.
