Amid swirling speculation about Cristiano Ronaldo potentially leaving Al-Nassr for Fenerbahce, Portuguese coach José Mourinho has firmly debunked the rumors, dismissing them as baseless. In his signature witty style, Mourinho suggested the only reason Ronaldo might come to Istanbul would be to enjoy a meal with him.
“Cristiano to Fenerbahce? Only if he’s coming for dinner… It’s all rubbish,” Mourinho quipped during a press conference following Fenerbahce’s dominant 6-2 victory over Kayserispor. He further joked about Istanbul’s strategic location between Saudi Arabia and Portugal, adding, “Maybe one day, on his private jet, he’ll make a stop here to see his old friend José. But it would only be for dinner, nothing more.”
Ronaldo, who remains under contract with Al-Nassr until 2025, continues to deliver exceptional performances. His recent brace in the AFC Champions League underlined his enduring skill and commitment to the Saudi Pro League. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has consistently expressed his intention to finish his career in Saudi Arabia, ruling out any immediate transfer plans.
Mourinho took the opportunity to highlight Fenerbahce’s robust form and emphasized the high standards for any potential January signings. “If someone joins in January, they need to be really good because improving this squad isn’t easy,” he said. His remarks reflect Fenerbahce’s strong position in domestic and international competitions this season, showcasing their depth and cohesion.
Ronaldo’s link to Fenerbahce originated from unverified rumors that gained traction online, sparking discussions among fans and pundits. However, Mourinho’s emphatic dismissal has put the speculation to rest. The coach’s humorous yet clear statements underscored the improbability of such a move while subtly reinforcing his confidence in Ronaldo’s commitment to Al-Nassr.
Fenerbahce’s recent performances under Mourinho’s guidance have bolstered their reputation as a formidable force. The team’s victory over Kayserispor marked yet another impressive display of tactical prowess and player synergy.
As for Ronaldo, his focus remains on Al-Nassr, where he continues to set benchmarks with his performances. The star forward has been a pivotal figure in elevating the profile of football in Saudi Arabia, attracting global attention to the league.
While fans may enjoy speculating about high-profile transfers, Mourinho’s remarks serve as a reminder of the challenges in reshaping top-tier squads and the enduring loyalty of football’s biggest stars to their current commitments.
