In a striking revelation, Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who made a high-profile move to Al-Nassr in January 2023, has declared his intention to retire in Saudi Arabia, dispelling any immediate thoughts of hanging up his boots. This significant decision was confirmed by the Al-Nassr forward, marking a likely end to an extraordinary career that began on the humble streets of Madeira and spanned the globe.
Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with goal-scoring brilliance, has left an indelible mark in every major football league he’s played in. His journey saw him excel in Spain, Italy, and England, where he racked up impressive statistics and countless accolades. The transition to Al-Nassr has been nothing short of spectacular, with the star striker netting 61 goals in just 67 appearances and contributing 16 assists since his arrival.
In an interview with Portuguese broadcaster NOW, Ronaldo expressed his contentment with his current club and life in Saudi Arabia. “I don’t know if I will retire soon, in two or three years, but probably I will retire at Al Nassr. I’m very happy at this club, and I feel good in this country too. I love playing in Saudi Arabia. I want to continue,” Ronaldo stated, signifying his intention to extend his stay in the Middle East.
The 38-year-old’s tenure at Real Madrid remains the pinnacle of his club career, where he shattered records, scoring a staggering 450 goals in 438 matches. His prolific form in Spain solidified his status as an all-time great. Additionally, Ronaldo holds the honor of being the highest-ever goal-scorer in international football, a testament to his longevity and consistency on the world stage.
Despite his illustrious career, the Portugal captain insisted that he does not seek a ceremonial farewell tour with the national team. “When I leave the national team, I won’t tell anyone beforehand and it will be a very spontaneous decision on my part, but also a well-thought-out one. What I want most right now is to help the national team in its upcoming matches. We have the Nations League coming up soon and I would really like to play there,” he asserted.
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Ronaldo’s statement underscores his unwavering commitment to representing Portugal, even as he approaches the twilight years of his career.
In recognition of his unparalleled achievements, UEFA is set to honor Ronaldo with a special award, acknowledging his lasting legacy in the Champions League. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, in his tribute, emphasized Ronaldo’s exceptional contributions to the competition. “Ronaldo is one of the brightest stars in the UEFA Champions League constellation. His extraordinary goal-scoring achievements in the competition seem destined to stand the test of time, posing a remarkable challenge for future generations to surpass. His sustained excellence at the highest level is a testament to his relentless pursuit of both team and individual honors,” Ceferin’s statement read.
Ronaldo’s era in football will be remembered as one of relentless ambition and unprecedented success. Starting his professional journey with Sporting CP, he quickly attracted attention from Europe’s top clubs. A move to Manchester United in 2003 saw him evolve from a promising youngster into one of the world’s best players, winning three Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy under Sir Alex Ferguson.
He then took his talents to Real Madrid in 2009, where his career skyrocketed. At Los Blancos, Ronaldo collected four Champions League titles, cementing his legacy with dazzling performances and a formidable partnership with the likes of Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale. After a fruitful period at Madrid, he made a switch to Juventus, continuing his goal-scoring spree and adding two Serie A titles to his decorated resume.
Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr initially raised eyebrows, but his impact on Saudi Arabian football has been profound. His presence has not only elevated the club’s performance but also increased the global visibility of the Saudi Pro League. His intention to retire in Saudi Arabia speaks volumes about his satisfaction with his current environment and his desire to contribute to the sport beyond Europe’s major leagues.
With his future now seemingly set, fans worldwide will savor every remaining moment of Ronaldo’s playing days, whether in the vibrant stadiums of Saudi Arabia or the international arenas where he continues to inspire millions.
