Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that his current club, Al Nassr, could be the final stop of his illustrious career. In a recent interview, Ronaldo, 39, expressed contentment with his life in Saudi Arabia and suggested that retirement might be on the horizon. “I don’t know if I will retire soon, in two or three years… but probably I will retire here at Al Nassr,” he told Portuguese TV channel NOW. Since joining the Saudi Pro League side in January 2023, Ronaldo has continued to break records, further solidifying his legacy as one of football’s all-time greats.
Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr marked a significant shift after his departure from Manchester United. Despite speculation about a return to his roots at Sporting Lisbon, Ronaldo chose Saudi Arabia, where he feels “very happy” and “good” both at the club and in the country. With 898 career goals, including 130 for Portugal, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is not slowing down, even as he eyes his final years on the pitch.
Focusing on International Duties
Ronaldo remains deeply committed to Portugal’s national team, with the Nations League games under head coach Roberto Martinez in his sights. “What I want now is to be able to help the national team,” Ronaldo said, emphasizing his desire to keep contributing on the international stage. He confirmed he has no immediate plans to retire from international football, setting his sights on upcoming matches against Croatia, Scotland, and Poland. “I would really like to play,” Ronaldo added, highlighting his passion to keep competing for his country.
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Despite his advanced age for a professional footballer, Ronaldo has continued to perform at an elite level. However, when the time comes for him to step away, he plans to keep it under wraps. “When I leave the national team, I will not tell anyone; it will be a very spontaneous decision on my part, but also a very well thought-out one,” he stated, adding an air of mystery to his eventual exit.
Beyond the Pitch: Future Plans and New Ventures
While many football legends transition into coaching or punditry, Ronaldo is clear about his next steps—or lack thereof—in football management. “At the moment, I’m not thinking about being a coach of the first team or any team,” he said. “It doesn’t even cross my mind, I’ve never thought about it. I don’t see my future going through that.” Instead, Ronaldo appears focused on new ventures, including his rapidly growing YouTube channel, which gained one million subscribers within just 90 minutes of its launch, hinting at possible post-retirement plans.
Ronaldo has expressed a broader vision for his life after football, though he remains tight-lipped about specifics. “I see myself doing other things outside of football, but only God knows what the future holds,” he mused. His words suggest that Ronaldo’s post-retirement journey could be as unpredictable and dynamic as his football career.
Recognizing a Legend: Awards and Records
Ronaldo’s incredible achievements continue to be celebrated globally. With 140 goals in 183 Champions League appearances, he is the competition’s all-time leading scorer, 11 goals clear of his long-time rival Lionel Messi. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin is set to honor Ronaldo with a special award to mark his unparalleled impact on the Champions League, a tournament he has won five times—once with Manchester United and four times with Real Madrid.
Despite his stellar accomplishments, Ronaldo remains humble about his future in football, stating that while retirement looms, he has not made any definitive plans. His focus is on enjoying the final years of his playing career, contributing to Al Nassr, and leading Portugal in crucial international fixtures. “I’m happy to play in Saudi Arabia, and I want to continue,” he emphasized, leaving fans hopeful for a few more unforgettable moments from the football legend.