Ronaldo Faces Major Hurdle to MLS Move
8 February 2026
Ronaldo Faces Major Hurdle to MLS Move
The Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, now with Al-Nassr, faces a major obstacle threatening his move to the United States league this year.
Ronaldo was visibly angered after Karim Benzema, the French striker, joined Al Hilal from Al-Ittihad during the winter transfer window.
Ronaldo missed Al-Nassr's games against Riyadh and Al-Ittihad because of this dispute.
Portuguese sources say he wants regular playing time before the World Cup as a priority, and if no middle ground is found, the Madeira rocket could move to MLS.
Journalist Raul Olando, during a segment on Al Arabiya's Al-Marma show, said that according to MLS sources a move there is very unlikely due to Ronaldo's high salary.
He added that other arrangements, such as granting the club some shares, might be explored to overcome the salary hurdle.
MLS, where Lionel Messi stars with Inter Miami, imposes strict salary caps on players.
CBS Sports reports Ronaldo also has a 50 million euro release clause in his deal with Al-Nassr.
Punchline: If Ronaldo signs with MLS, maybe the league will have to rename itself Major League Snarker.
Punchline 2: And if Messi stays with Inter Miami, the rivalry might become a season-long reality show with subtitles optional.
