World Cup target behind Ronaldo's Al-Nassr decision

Cristiano Ronaldo helped Portugal win a second Nations League title at the start of June

Cristiano Ronaldo says the chance to rest over the summer and be in the best condition for the 2026 World Cup is why he signed a new deal at Al-Nassr - rather than joining a team involved in the the Club World Cup.

The Portugal forward is targeting a sixth World Cup appearance in the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer.

He signed a new two-year contract with Saudi side Al-Nassr earlier this week, having already revealed that he had turned down offers from teams at the Club World Cup, which is currently being played in the United States.

"I had some offers to play [Club] World Cup, but I think it didn't make sense because I prefer to have a good rest, a good preparation, because this season will be very long, because this is the season of the World Cup at the end," 40-year-old Ronaldo told Al Nassr TV.

He said he decided to "not listen" to offers in order to be "ready not only for Al Nassr, but also for the national team".

Ronaldo has scored 138 goals in 221 appearances for Portugal since making his debut in 2003.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has played at 11 major tournaments, lifting two Nations League titles and winning Euro 2016.

He has managed 99 goals in 111 appearances for Al-Nassr and is well on his way to reaching 1,000 senior goals in his career, with a current tally of 938 for club and country.