Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed he could play for another three years – which may see him compete in one final World Cup.
The 39-year-old, who is tied down at Al Nassr until 2025, also insisted he is unlikely to return to Europe amid talk of an emotional return to Sporting Lisbon.
Ronaldo’s partner Georgina Rodriguez hinted in March that the Manchester United icon could call time on his glittering career next year, which sent his fans into a meltdown.
But the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has now stated he will not be hanging up his boots anytime soon as he aims to retire in the Middle East.
He told NOW: “I don’t know if I will retire soon, in two or three years… but probably I will retire here at Al Nassr.
“I’m very happy at this club, I feel good in this country too. I’m happy to play in Saudi Arabia and I want to continue.”
Should Portugal skipper Ronaldo continue for at least two more seasons, it would see him be eligible for the 2026 World Cup, which would be his last chance of glory.
It is the only major trophy that has eluded him from his illustrious career, which separates himself from rival Lionel Messi.
And Ronaldo has stressed that when the time comes to retire from international football, it will take everyone by surprise.
Ronaldo, who could face Croatia and Scotland next month, stated: “When I leave the national team, I won’t tell anyone in advance.
“It will be a very spontaneous decision on my part, but also a very well thought-out one.
“Right now what I want is to be able to help the national team in their upcoming matches.
“We have the Nations League ahead of us and I would really like to play.”
Ronaldo recently created YouTube history with his new channel, where he earned one million subscribers in under 90 minutes.
At the time of writing, he has over 48 millions subs – reaching the figure quicker than any other content creator.
And it appears to be something that Ronaldo is keen to stay involved in once he does retire, as he declared that management is not on his radar.
He remarked: “At the moment, I’m not thinking about being a coach of the first team or any team.
“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.”
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https://talksport.com/football/2022833/cristiano-ronaldo-retirement-plan-al-nassr/
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