Cristiano Ronaldo’s tearful trudge from the Al-Thumama Stadium marked the end of a long and unsuccessful pursuit of international football’s biggest prize.
The 37-year-old, relegated to Portugal's bench for the knockout stages, was unable to conduct another rescue act for his nation as they crashed out of the World Cup to Morocco. That defeat will almost certainly ensure Ronaldo’s illustrious and trophy-laden career will end without the one he craved most.
But what their premature exit in Qatar has afforded the free agent, is an extra week to formulate plans for the remainder of his club career. His acrimonious Manchester United exit dominated the headlines prior to the tournament and his search for a new club is likely to do the same after the ticker-tape falls in Doha on Sunday.
Ronaldo’s downfall at Old Trafford - and his new status with the national team - shows signs of a player finally in decline. However, the forward will be of the opinion he still has plenty to offer at the top table…if he is given the chance.
Saudi Arabian giants Al-Nassr had reportedly agreed to sign Ronaldo - reports which have subsequently proved to be wide of the mark. And it is understood that the veteran intends on signing for a club still in the Champions League as he looks to cement his legacy as the competition’s record goalscorer.
The problem comes when attempting to recognise a team within Europe’s elite that still sees Ronaldo as a viable option. Chelsea have previously been linked after their American owner Todd Boehly met super-agent Jorge Mendes during the summer window.
The US tycoon wanted to make a huge splash in his first window in charge and felt, regardless of age, that Ronaldo would provide just that. Ultimately, Thomas Tuchel put his foot down, stopping any potential move in its tracks.
But with Tuchel out of the door and Ronaldo now unattached for the first time in his career, a move may be easier to complete. And the Blues’ need for attacking reinforcements has only heightened this week after Armando Broja suffered a serious knee injury which will keep him out for the season.
Broja suffered the injury during a friendly with Aston Villa over the weekend, likely forcing Graham Potter and Stamford Bridge bosses into action when the window opens next month. Ronaldo is said to be under consideration, but in Youssoufa Moukoko Chelsea appear to have identified a long-term alternative.
At just 18 years of age, the German international has already made a name for himself thanks to his impressive performances for Borussia Dortmund. The Athletic report that Chelsea are in discussions with the teenager and his representatives, with Premier League rivals believing a deal is advanced.
And should he make the move from Dortmund to the English top flight, he would do so with a glowing recommendation from Erling Haaland. The Manchester City superstar made the same journey during the summer window and has hit the ground running in emphatic fashion. Haaland played alongside Moukoko and is in no doubt of the talent Chelsea could acquire if they pull the trigger.
"I'm really happy for Youssoufa. I'd really like to play with him sometime. I think he's one of the biggest talents in the world right now. He's only 16 years and one day old, and he's playing fantastically. He has a great career ahead of him," the Norwegian said after the youngster’s debut.
Haaland continued to praise his colleague, but hinted he felt it was best for him to stay with Dortmund. He added: "[Youssoufa] is very powerful and skillful. He is already at one of the top clubs for improving his game. The club gives you a chance to play. It does not matter what age you are.”
Moukoko is out of contract at the end of this season and will be able to discuss pre-contract agreements from January 1. For his part, he has hinted he would be happy to stay at Dortmund, as long as his demands are met.
"I feel really well in Dortmund. I know the environment, my friends are there. I love the club, the fans love me, I hope. Not everyone can say that about themselves," the striker said last month. "I get confidence from the coach. Edin [Terzic] is like a father to me.
"I would really like to stay in Dortmund, I have everything there."
However, he did warn his current employers that without a clear plan for his progression, he could be forced to move elsewhere. "I would like to know exactly what the club has in mind for my future. I want to develop further and without games I just can’t develop further, because I don’t want my development to stop again. I think that’s quite normal, because perspective is important to me."
Whether Chelsea can get a deal done for the striker at the start of 2023 remains to be seen. But Haaland’s endorsement could go a long way to persuading Blues bosses that he represents a wiser acquisition than a player firmly in the twilight of their glittering career.
