Cristiano Ronaldo has suggested that the current Al-Nassr season could be his last in professional football. The 41-year-old has just one year remaining on his deal with the Saudi club and has hinted that this campaign will mark the end of his playing days.
Ronaldo's Retirement Hint
Speaking in an interview with Vogue Magazine, Ronaldo said: "This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy. I have my future all mapped out. I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard."
He added: "Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one. And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I've earned - what we've earned. Because after all it's been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice."
World Cup Exit and Personal Milestones
The Portugal captain featured at his sixth and final World Cup over the summer, as his country bowed out in the quarter-finals following a 1-0 defeat to eventual champions Spain. The interview occurred five days before Ronaldo wed his long-term partner, Georgina Rodriguez, in a private ceremony at their residence in Cascais, Portugal.
Al-Nassr's Season and National Team Future
Earlier this week, Ronaldo returned to Saudi Arabia but was absent from Al-Nassr's opening match of the campaign. The Saudi champions launched their title defence with a 3-0 triumph over Al-Fateh under new manager Ange Postecoglou. Their previous boss, Jorge Jesus, departed at the conclusion of last season and is now Portugal's head coach.
Speaking at his unveiling press conference, Jesus indicated that the door remained open for Ronaldo to earn a call-up, with their next fixture scheduled for late September. "I haven't spoken to Cris yet. He will never be a problem for the national team or for me," Jesus explained. "As for the controversy, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. When the time comes to make a decision, I will speak with Cris and with everyone else individually. Cris is a symbol of Portugal. He will go down in history."
"It has been a great pleasure working with him. He is incredibly easy to work with. I need to speak with him to find out what he wants to do. He has always told me that he wants to finish his career at Al-Nassr. If he is in a position to be called up, I will do so."
