Edu Aguirre, the Spanish journalist close to Cristiano Ronaldo, drops a bombshell regarding the possibility of the Portuguese star appearing in a Real Madrid shirt once again during the Club World Cup

In a development that has taken the football world by surprise, Spanish journalist Edu Aguirre — a close confidant of Cristiano Ronaldo — has ignited fresh speculation about the Portuguese icon’s potential return to Real Madrid. As the countdown to the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States draws closer, fans worldwide are daring to dream: could Ronaldo once again don the famous white shirt of Los Blancos?

Ronaldo, currently under contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, is nearing the end of his deal, which officially expires in late May 2025. With just days remaining and no confirmation from the club about a contract extension, uncertainty looms large over the future of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

The silence from Al-Nassr’s boardroom has only intensified speculation. While some insiders believe a quiet renewal is being negotiated behind closed doors, others argue that Ronaldo may already be preparing for a final, fairytale return to the club where he cemented his status as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

Speaking on the popular Spanish football program El Chiringuito, Aguirre didn’t mince words. “There are ongoing discussions and considerations being made,” he said. “Cristiano wants to win more titles before ending his career. If there’s any place in the world where he feels he still has something left to prove, it’s Real Madrid.”

Aguirre went on to highlight that Ronaldo’s bond with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez remains strong. Their relationship, built over years of mutual respect and historic success, continues to flourish despite Ronaldo’s departure from the club in 2018.

In fact, Aguirre revealed that recent communications have taken place between Pérez and Ronaldo’s camp. While not yet official or concrete, the dialogue indicates that both sides are open to the idea — particularly for a short-term role during the Club World Cup this summer.

Such a return would not only carry emotional weight for Madridistas but could also provide tactical benefits for a team in transition following the departures of Luka Modrić and Carlo Ancelotti. The experience and charisma of a player like Ronaldo could be exactly what the team needs in the high-stakes environment of a global tournament.

At 40 years old, many critics believe Ronaldo’s best years are behind him. However, his recent performances in the Saudi Pro League suggest he still possesses the drive, fitness, and goal-scoring instinct to contribute meaningfully — especially in a role that allows him to focus solely on big matches.

Ronaldo’s most recent title came in 2021, when he lifted the Coppa Italia with Juventus. Since then, he has played at Manchester United and Al-Nassr, where he’s broken records and inspired fans, but team silverware has remained elusive.

For Ronaldo, a return to Real Madrid represents more than just a swan song. It could be the stage for one last dance — a final chance to hoist a trophy in the colors he made legendary and to close the chapter of his career on a high, surrounded by familiar faces and loyal fans.

Moreover, with the Club World Cup now a more prestigious and commercially significant event, bringing back Ronaldo could boost Real Madrid’s global appeal during the tournament, both on and off the pitch. Merchandise, viewership, and media attention would reach unprecedented levels.

The potential reunion would also serve as a unifying moment for fans who have long hoped to see Ronaldo return home. For many, the memories of his 450 goals, four Champions League titles, and unforgettable performances in El Clásico are etched permanently in football history.

Still, obstacles remain. Al-Nassr may yet offer Ronaldo an enticing renewal package, possibly with expanded ambassadorial duties. Additionally, Real Madrid’s coaching staff will need to assess how his inclusion might affect the current squad’s dynamics and youth development.

But for now, hope springs eternal. Aguirre’s revelation has breathed life into a dream many believed to be over. As one of the sport’s most iconic figures faces the twilight of his playing days, perhaps there is still one more story left to write — one that ends, fittingly, at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Whether it’s a brief cameo at the Club World Cup or a longer emotional homecoming, one thing is certain: Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy at Real Madrid is far from forgotten. And just maybe, it’s not finished either.