Al Nassr v Al Taawoun: Saudi Pro League - Source: Getty
Al Nassr v Al Taawoun: Saudi Pro League - Source: Getty
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has been linked with a move to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in the summer transfer window, as per Sports Boom. The 33-year-old's experience in Europe could be integral for the Knights of Najd to find success next season, amid rumors of Marcelo Brozovic being linked with a move away from the club.
Manchester United announced that Casemiro would depart the club at the end of the season as a free agent, upon the expiry of his contract, on their official website last week. The Brazilian stated:
“I will carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life. From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club. It is not time to say goodbye; there are many more memories to create during the next four months. We still have a lot to fight for together; my complete focus will, as always, remain on giving my everything to help our club to succeed.”
Casemiro has had a successful four-year stint with the Red Devils to date, registering 21 goals and 13 assists in 147 appearances across all competitions. He has helped Manchester United win the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, and is now reportedly wanted by Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr.
The Brazilian is also reportedly inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo's longevity and has no plans of retiring anytime soon. Additionally, both superstars played alongside each other at Real Madrid between 2013 and 2018, winning a total of 11 trophies, including four UEFA Champions League titles.
"I can see him playing for a good few years yet" - Former Manchester United star predicts when Cristiano Ronaldo could join Lionel Messi in the MLS
Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham has tipped Cristiano Ronaldo to continue playing professionally until the age of 44, citing his fitness levels and work ethic. He also reckons Ronaldo would join Lionel Messi in the MLS over a return to Europe, but doesn't see this move happening 'until he is 44/45'.
Sheringham told GOAL:
"It’s all about keeping yourself fit and healthy, staying away from injuries. He’s got a proper body, he’s like a machine that looks after him on the football pitch. He is playing in a league where it won’t be so hard on him week in, week out. I can see him playing for a good few years yet. I think he might go to 44.”
When asked if the Portugal ace could return to Europe, he replied:
“I don’t think so [return to Europe]. I think he would do it in America, without a doubt. He might wait until he is 44/45 before he goes.”
Cristiano Ronaldo is still playing at a high level for Al-Nassr and is contracted with the club until the summer of 2027. The 40-year-old is also expected to feature for Portugal this summer at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.