Pep Guardiola set to block Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr dream signing after planned talks

Pep Guardiola set to block Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr dream signing after planned talks

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 15:01 - 11.09.2024

Cristiano Ronaldo's plans of luring a superstar to Al Nassr have reportedly been blocked by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

Pep Guardiola is reportedly set to block Cristiano Ronaldo's reported attempts to lure Mateo Kovacic to Saudi Arabia in the January transfer window.

There has been speculation that the Croatian midfielder's game-time at Manchester City will dwindle following Ilkay Gundogan's surprise return from Barcelona, offering a potential window for Saudi clubs to make a push.

Kovacic, 30, was brought in last summer as a replacement for Gundogan, but with the German's unexpected comeback, the Croatian's role in Guardiola's side is now under threat.

Guardiola to block Kovacic from joining Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr

Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr have expressed interest in Kovacic, and are believed to have enlisted Ronaldo's help to persuade his former Real Madrid teammate to make the move.

However, according to reports, Guardiola is keen to retain Kovacic's services and plans to block any potential transfer.

Manchester City's Matteo Kovacic | Imago
Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo | Fabrizio Romano on X

Kovacic has started the season in fine form, scoring in the 2-0 win over Chelsea on opening weekend and filling in expertly for midfield general Rodri, who is yet to play a single minute for the champions after being offered an extended break.

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has expressed his undying love for Manchester United, despite leaving the club in disastrous circumstances. 

“I repeat that I still love Manchester United,” Ronaldo said recently, per Fabrizio Romano. “I wish Manchester United all the best.”

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