Cristiano Ronaldo was a Chelsea target before Thomas Tuchel’s decisive veto

Published on: 19 September 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo came close to joining Chelsea in 2022 after leaving Manchester United, but the move was stopped by then-manager Thomas Tuchel.

Chelsea owner Todd Boehly was keen to bring the Portugal forward to Stamford Bridge. Having only recently completed his purchase of the club, Boehly wanted to make a high-profile signing and saw Ronaldo as a major name for his squad.

According to The New York Times, Boehly personally met Ronaldo’s manager, Jorge Mendes, to discuss the possibility of a transfer.

However, the proposal met firm opposition from Tuchel, who rejected the prospect of signing the forward. The German’s stance ultimately ended Chelsea’s interest in the deal.

Ronaldo instead moved to the Saudi Arabian league, where he continues to play.

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