After 22 years as a professional, Cristiano Ronaldo has given the clearest indication yet that he is looking ahead to a life after soccer. The legendary forward turned 39 earlier this year and, despite his incredible longevity, is surely approaching the end of his illustrious career. Ronaldo’s Al Nassr recently embarked on the new Saudi Pro League season, where there are expected to challenge for the title once again.
CR7 will be eager to add more silverware to his vast trophy cabinet. However, in a recent conversation with Portuguese outlet NOW, Ronaldo revealed that he is already thinking about retirement: “I don’t know if I’ll finish soon or in two or three years. But, possibly, it will be at Al Nassr.”
He continued: “It’s the team where I’m happy, where I’m good, where I feel good, both in the country and in the league. That’s why, most likely I can finish my career at Al-Nassr. I’m very happy to play in the Arab league and I want to continue.”
Despite his advancing age Ronaldo remained Portugal’s starting striker for the recent European Championship in Germany. He came into the tournament after finishing as top goal scorer in qualifying, hitting ten goals in nine games.
However he struggled at the tournament itself, failing to score in five appearances as Portugal were eliminated by France in the quarter-finals. With such a talented group of attacking players fighting for spots in Robert Martinez’s starting XI, are Ronaldo’s days for the national team numbered?
Ronaldo's International Future
Martinez is yet to confirm his team for the upcoming September international break but Ronaldo has not made any suggestion that he is about to step away from the national team. In fact, after Euros loss to France CR7 hinted that he was planning to continue with Portugal.
He wrote on Instagram: “We are grateful for everything you have given us and for everything we have achieved so far. On and off the field, I am sure that this legacy will be honoured and will continue to be built. Together.”
Ronaldo Doesn't See Himself as a Coach
Ronaldo, who has achieved remarkable success on the field, has no plans to pursue a career in coaching. When asked about his post-retirement aspirations, he explicitly stated that he doesn't see himself managing a team.
“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. I see myself doing other things outside of football, but only God knows what the future holds.”
Ronaldo's statement indicates that he is ready to explore new avenues after he hangs up his boots. While he is still committed to playing at the highest level, he has already started to think about his life beyond the sport.
His decision to retire in Saudi Arabia, a country he has come to enjoy, suggests that he is looking for a more relaxed and fulfilling life away from the intense pressure of European football. While many fans would love to see him return to a familiar league, Ronaldo's decision to end his career in a new environment highlights his willingness to embrace new challenges and experiences. Whether he will remain at Al-Nassr for the next few years or decides to explore other options remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Ronaldo’s presence on the football pitch will be deeply missed by fans worldwide.
