Cristiano Ronaldo's sister tells journalist 'delete it' in response to post about brother

Cristiano Ronaldo’s sister Katia Aveiro has shut down rumours that her brother could soon leave Al-Nassr. Ronaldo, 39, joined the Saudi Arabian team in December 2022 after parting ways with Manchester United.

His move to the Saudi Pro League sparked a trend of high-profile players moving to the Middle East, including Brazilian superstar Neymar, who transferred to Al-Hilal from PSG last year for a staggering £86million and now earns an eye-watering £2.5m per week. Despite Ronaldo proving his worth as Al-Nassr’s star player, netting 74 goals in 85 matches, Neymar’s impact at Al-Hilal has been less impressive.

The 32-year-old has only made seven appearances due to spending most of last season sidelined with an ACL tear. Now back on the bench with a hamstring injury after returning last month, it has been suggested that Neymar could rejoin his first club Santos in January. Brazilian publication Esportes reported that Al-Hilal would consider replacing Neymar with Ronaldo, but Aveiro labelled these claims “nonsense”.

The Esportes report stated: “With an open future, Neymar can be replaced by Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Hilal.” However, Aveiro hit back at the journalist on Instagram, aiming to end the rumour.

“Are you just writing nonsense? You clearly know nothing about football,” Aveiro said. “You could have called me and I could teach you about the rivalry of the clubs there and what that possibility would be, zero. Delete it, my friend, there is still time.”

The historic feud between the two prominent Riyadh-based clubs began with their inaugural clash in 1964, and, according to Transfermarkt, a mere eight transfers have occurred between them to date. The chances of Al Nassr choosing to cash in on Ronaldo are incredibly slim, and the forward has committed to the club until 2025.

A recent piece from Brazilian outlet UOL claimed that Neymar had informed Al-Hilal of his “greatest desire” to return to the country, citing Santos as the most likely destination. Despite the forward missing most of last season, Al-Hilal are the reigning Saudi champions.

Ronaldo has played in seven Riyadh Derbies without a single victory against Al-Hilal, scoring only once. Al-Nassr’s most notable loss against their city rivals came in a penalty shootout to decide last season’s King Cup final.

Portugal captain Ronaldo was denied his second piece of silverware with Al Nassr after triumphing in the 2023 Arab Club Champions Cup. Yet, for now, Ronaldo will be centring his attention on Portugal’s upcoming Nations League fixtures against Poland and Croatia.