At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo has already won nearly every major trophy in world soccer. But even in the twilight of his legendary career at Al Nassr, the Portuguese forward is chasing one final historic milestone: 1,000 career goals. Now, a former Chelsea star believes a key signing could help Ronaldo reach that target.
William Gallas, a pivotal member of Chelsea’s back-to-back Premier League-winning teams in 2005 and 2006, believes Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne would be the perfect addition to Al Nassr to help Ronaldo accomplish the feat.
“It would be great for Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane. It would be great for the club (Al Nassr). I know that the club are desperate to win the league, so it would be a very positive thing for them,” Gallas said in an interview with Slingo.
The former French international also emphasized how De Bruyne’s style of play could accelerate Ronaldo’s goal tally: “It would definitely help Ronaldo score 1000 goals because De Bruyne’s vision is amazing. I’m sure Ronaldo would love to play alongside him.”
Ronaldo scored a brace against Al Riyadh last week, increasing his career goal count to 933—just 67 shy of the elusive 1,000-goal mark. Gallas, who ranks De Bruyne among the best in the world behind only Lionel Messi and Ronaldo, said the Belgian’s arrival could be transformative for Al Nassr, which currently lacks a high-caliber playmaker.
De Bruyne to stay in England?
De Bruyne’s contract with Manchester City is set to expire in June 2025, and while speculation around his next move is growing, the player remains noncommittal. Following City’s recent win over Everton, the Belgian playmaker was asked about his future and whether staying in England was still an option.
“I’m open for anything, anything, just for because I have to look at the whole picture. I’m looking at sporting, family, everything together, what makes the most sense for me and my family.”
In recent weeks, reports have suggested that Inter Miami could be in pole position to land De Bruyne. The MLS club recently acquired an international roster spot from the Portland Timbers, opening the door for a high-profile signing in 2025. However, De Bruyne’s vague response suggests his next destination is still far from decided.