With marketing and sporting goals… How Wydad exploited the entry into the race to contract Cristiano Ronaldo
The Spanish newspaper “Marca” revealed a major surprise by disclosing that Wydad Athletic Club has entered the circle of clubs interested in signing Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo. This move is in preparation for participating in the upcoming edition of the FIFA Club World Cup, which is set to take place starting June 14, featuring 32 teams.
This news has ignited anticipation within the football community, especially amid the uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo’s future with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, following a season that fell short of expectations despite the player’s goal tally. With the possibility of his departure from the Saudi league, some clubs have begun to take action to capitalize on this situation, including Wydad, which will represent Africa in the new edition of the global tournament.
The Spanish newspaper reported that Wydad’s management has included the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo among its objectives to enhance the club’s media presence and increase its commercial value on a global scale.
Furthermore, the involvement of a star of Ronaldo’s caliber would be welcomed by FIFA, particularly in a tournament described as historic and resembling the World Cup for national teams.
The Moroccan club’s management has focused on the economic and promotional aspects that could accompany this potential signing, viewing it as an opportunity to expand the club’s fan base, attract sponsors and advertisers, and leverage the significant media momentum that any movement of the Portuguese star generates.
This approach comes at a time when Wydad is seeking to regain its continental and international glow after seasons that did not meet aspirations.
The management aimed to open new avenues for sports investment through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and products associated with the club’s brand, which could enhance the team’s market value and boost its global presence, especially during a tournament that features top clubs from various continents.
With Al Nassr facing challenges in qualifying for the AFC Champions League, the possibility of Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure remains viable, providing Wydad an opportunity to negotiate a short-term deal that could bolster the team’s technical and marketing readiness during its participation in the global tournament.
