Eddie Howe has dispelled rumors that Cristiano Ronaldo would sign a loan deal with the Magpies if they qualify for the Champions League in the end of this season.
According to reports, Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr had a provision allowing him to transfer to the Magpies if they finish in the top four this year.
Before Newcastle’s Premier League match against Arsenal, Eddie Howe responded to questions regarding the reports.
Eddie Howe stated to Sky Sports: “We wish Cristiano the best, but from our standpoint, there is no truth to that.”
The Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund successfully acquired the Tyneside club in October 2021.
They have made significant player investments over the previous 15 months and have turned around the team’s fortunes from the relegation areas to be in the proper position for Europe’s top club championship.
The Magpies are now in third place in the Premier League, behind Mikel Arteta’s soaring Arsenal and reigning champions Manchester City.
Ronaldo, 37, traveled to the nation for his physical and might make his Al-Nassr debut on Thursday against Al Ta’ee.
After passing his physical on Tuesday, the Portuguese superstar was introduced to his fans and the media before being announced as an Al-Nassr player.
Ronaldo claimed that after his painful departure from Manchester United, he had numerous offers.
Ronaldo also disclosed that although he had made a promise to the Saudi team, he had offers to move to Australia and the US.
“I had a lot of possibilities in Europe, and several clubs tried to sign me there as well as in Brazil, Australia, the United States, and even Portugal.” However, I pledged to this club.
Before the unveiling, it was confirmed earlier on Tuesday that he had finished his medical. The Portuguese user shared a picture on his Instagram story with the message, “Medical done!” to share the good news.
Ronaldo is seen in the photo getting connected to several wires after using a treadmill at the Al-Nassr medical facility. Ronaldo’s contract with Al-Nassr, which is valid through 2025, was formally confirmed on Friday evening, making him the highest-paid football player in the world.
On Monday, he left for Saudi Arabia and said goodbye to his supporters in a brief Instagram video before boarding the plane. Al-Nassr has now broadcast a video of Ronaldo and his family arriving at the airport on Monday night after they landed.
All of the young players are sporting the No. 7 jersey, which Ronaldo, 37, has come to identify with over the years, on the back. As he posed for photos with the kids, Ronaldo unmistakably gave the impression that he was enjoying the greeting.
After finishing his physical, Ronaldo met with Al-Nassr supporters at the team’s home field, Mrsool Park, on Tuesday.
Fans filled the 30,000-seat stadium for Ronaldo’s unveiling.
Fans of Al-Nassr may not have to wait long to see their new acquisition in action either; if he is considered healthy enough to play, Ronaldo may make his debut on Thursday against Al Ta’ee.
Given Ronaldo’s recent lack of playing time, manager Rudi Garcia may have a difficult decision to make. The former Manchester United forward hasn’t played since Portugal’s World Cup exit on December 10 against Morocco.
