Al Hilal CEO reveals reason for not signing Cristiano Ronaldo

Esteve Calzada, Al Hilal CEO, revealed why his club didn’t pursue Cristiano Ronaldo’s signature during FIFA’s additional transfer window this month — such a situation would be highly unusual given Ronaldo’s status as captain of their eternal rivals, Al Nassr.

“We’re like Real Madrid in Saudi Arabia, the club that everyone links with rumors because they might have interests. Sometimes it’s true, but much of it isn’t,” Calzada explained to Diario As.

Despite not signing Ronaldo, Al Hilal demonstrated their high ambitions by appointing Simone Inzaghi as head coach after his departure from Inter Milan. The club also made an offer to Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes, which was ultimately declined.

“We’ll be very active after the competition ends. We’re an ambitious club expected to win — however, we have budgets we must adhere to,” added Calzada, whose team finished as runners-up in the Saudi Pro League this season.

Al Hilal will begin their Club World Cup journey against Real Madrid next Wednesday.