Latest news with #KnightsofNajd
Mint
a day ago
- Sport
- Mint
Why is Al Nassr not part of FIFA Club World Cup? Explained
The FIFA Club World Cup is set to begin on June 15 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The revamped tournament will feature 32 teams, generating massive excitement. However, one notable absence is Al Nassr, the Saudi Pro League club that gained worldwide attention after Cristiano Ronaldo's inclusion. Despite their recent success, including an AFC Champions League title in 2023/24, the Knights of Najd won't be competing in the Club World Cup. Here's why. The qualification for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is based on a four-year continental performance ranking system. FIFA evaluated the club's results in their respective competitions, such as the AFC Champions League for Asian teams. Points were awarded based on achievements, with consistent success over multiple seasons being key. Al Nassr fell short in this ranking. While their 2023/24 AFC Champions League victory was a high point, their overall performance across the four-year cycle didn't accumulate enough points to secure a spot. Other Asian clubs, with more consistent results in recent seasons, edged them out. Al Nassr has been a strong contender in the Saudi Pro League, but their results haven't always been remarkable enough for the continental dominance. Here's a look at their league finishes over the last four seasons: Cristiano Ronaldo's arrival at Al Nassr in January 2023 was a game-changer. The club got more recognition across the world. Under his influence, Al Nassr won the 2023/24 AFC Champions League. Ronaldo's performances, including crucial goals, have been significant in their recent successes. Following the announcement of the FIFA Club World Cup participants, Ronaldo took to social media with a cryptic message that raised speculation. In a post on X, he wrote, "This chapter is over. The story? Still being written. Grateful to all," the caption read, implying that his journey with Al-Nassr has ended.
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Hindu
Why is Al Nassr not playing in FIFA Club World Cup?
Less than 15 days after the end of European season, club football will be back as United States hosts the big-budget reboot of the FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 of the highest-ranked teams from world football. The Hard Rock Stadium in Miami will launch the showpiece on June 15 (IST). Al Nassr gained global attention after Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Saudi Pro League club following the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, the Knights of Najd will not feature in the tournament despite winning the AFC Champions League in the 2023/24 season. ALSO READ | What are the new innovations and rule changes in play at FIFA Club World Cup 2025? 32 teams. 1 trophy. The #FIFACWC is coming. 🔜 — FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 3, 2025 Why is Al Nassr not playing in FIFA Club World Cup? The qualification system for this edition was based on continental performance over the last four years. Unfortunately, Al-Nassr didn't accumulate enough ranking points to make the cut. ALSO READ | Will Cristiano Ronaldo play in FIFA Club World Cup 2025? Where did Al Nassr finish in Saudi Pro League in the last four seasons? 2024/25 - Third 2023/24 - Second 2022/23 - Second 2021/22 - Third
