Desailly: Ronaldo Would Bring 'Football Culture' to MLS That Messi Cannot

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Desailly: Ronaldo Would Bring 'Football Culture' to MLS That Messi Cannot.

Cristiano Ronaldo's next career move has everyone talking. The Portuguese superstar is a free agent after finishing his contract with Al-Nassr, and despite turning 40, CR7 shows no signs of slowing down.

Ronaldo just helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League, scoring in the final against Spain before having to leave with an injury. The penalty shootout victory proved he can still perform at the highest level.

So where will football's goal machine end up next? One intriguing option is following his long-time rival Lionel Messi to the United States.

World Champion Pushes for Ronaldo's MLS Move

Former France World Cup winner Marcell Desailly is openly campaigning for Ronaldo to make the move to America. He believes CR7 would bring something special that even Messi hasn't fully delivered.

"I would like to see Cristiano Ronaldo in America, because of the 2026 World Cup," Desailly explained. "He will bring the culture of football, which they do not yet have."

The Frenchman didn't stop there. "Messi has brought energy, but Cristiano could generate a real interest from sponsors, big brands that do not yet sponsor football."

These comments suggest Ronaldo could transform MLS betting markets by attracting new fans and sponsors. A Ronaldo arrival would likely boost betting interest in MLS games significantly.

Ronaldo's Impressive Saudi Arabian Stats

Since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023, Ronaldo has been nothing short of spectacular. The Portuguese forward racked up 99 goals in just 111 games – remarkable numbers for a player in his late 30s adapting to a new league.

This scoring rate makes him an attractive proposition for MLS teams looking to make a splash. Any team signing Ronaldo would immediately become a betting favorite in most of their matches.

Ronaldo himself hasn't ruled out joining Messi at Inter Miami. When asked about playing alongside his longtime rival, CR7 simply said he's "open to anything" and that "anything can happen."

The timing could be perfect with the 2026 World Cup being hosted in North America. For Ronaldo, who seems determined to reach another World Cup with Portugal, playing in the host region might be appealing.

Several MLS teams have reportedly reached out to Ronaldo's representatives. Whether he chooses Miami or another American destination, his arrival would transform the league's profile ahead of football's biggest tournament.

At 40 years old, Ronaldo is defying time and expectations. Wherever he lands next, expect goals, excitement, and potentially a final World Cup appearance in 2026.

Nick Mordin.
Author
Last updated: June 2025