The countdown to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States has already stirred global intrigue—not just for the clubs involved, but for the superstars who might take the pitch. Among them is a certain Portuguese legend whose future remains shrouded in mystery.
While Lionel Messi is confirmed to represent Inter Miami, another global icon—whose name still draws millions of fans to stadiums and screens—is the subject of intense speculation. Whispers of a dramatic return for Cristiano Ronaldo to the Premier League, though not with Manchester United, have caught fire—especially after a former UEFA Champions League and Premier League winner publicly backed the idea.
Speaking to YouTuber and streamer IShowSpeed, FIFA President Gianni Infantino dropped a tantalizing hint: “Cristiano Ronaldo might play in the Club World Cup, yeah. There are discussions with some clubs… so if any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo for the Club World Cup—who knows, who knows.”
This followed a failed approach from Brazilian club Fluminense, whose president Mario Bittencourt confirmed he contacted Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes but was told “Ronaldo has no interest in playing in Brazil.” That firmly shut the door on speculation linking him with South American competition—but left the window wide open for European clubs, especially those taking part in the Club World Cup.
Enter John Obi Mikel: Chelsea should move
Now, the conversation has taken a compelling twist. Former Nigeria international and ex-Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has gone public with his plea for his former club to swoop in. Speaking live on talkSPORT, Mikel urged the Blues to make a sensational short-term signing.
“Ronaldo is an amazing player, a top goalscorer. It’d be great to see him. Doing it at Chelsea? Yes. Of course, we need a number nine,” he stated. He emphasized that young strikers like Liam Delap could learn from Ronaldo, should the 40-year-old join for the tournament.
“There’s this ten-day transfer period just for the tournament where clubs can bring in one or two players. I think it might be Al Hilal if he goes, but it would be good for the fans to see Ronaldo and Messi again in one tournament,” Mikel added, underlining FIFA’s move to allow temporary signings exclusively for the event.
