Why Ronaldo refused to play in Club World Cup — Argentine coach reveals

South American clubs have impressed in the Club World Cup so far. One of Argentina's giants, River Plate, is currently sitting at the summit of Group E. 

They could have been even stronger, as they approached Cristiano Ronaldo to join them before the competition, but the Portugal international turned down the offer, opting to remain a Faris Najd. 

With his contract winding down and Al Nassr's failure to book a place in the maiden edition of the FIFA Club World Cup’s current format, the Manchester United legend was approached by multiple clubs that had qualified for the competition. 

He was linked with fellow Arabian side Al Hilal; the president of Morocco's Wydad Casablanca revealed they approached Ronaldo, and now, after the forward already hinted he was contacted by an Argentine club, the coach of River Plate confirmed that they indeed made a move for the 40-year-old. 

During international duty for Portugal, the Selecao captain confirmed that he would not be partaking in the Club World Cup, a decision he claimed was better for his mid-long-term planning. 

In a recent interview, River’s coach, Marcelo Gallardo, said that Ronaldo's desire to prepare for next season was the reason he gave them for not accepting their offer. 

“In mid-March, informally, through a mutual friend, I said to [Ronaldo], ‘Hey, I have a Club World Cup coming up and for a player like you, who marked an era...don’t you intend to play in it?’” Gallardo said, per ESPN.

“Not only did he feel recognised, but he evaluated it, thought about it, but then replied, ’I have to prepare for next season.’”

Meanwhile, Ronaldo has expressed love for Argentina, as his long-term partner, Georgina Rodriguez, is Argentine. He said he hopes to visit the country one day.