Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement in emotional interview
Football’s most prolific goalscorer has indicated that he is nearing the conclusion of an extraordinary career. The 40-year-old Portuguese striker, currently playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, disclosed his imminent departure from the sport during a YouTube appearance on Piers Morgan Uncensored, reports BritPanorama.
With an astounding 952 goals to his name, the veteran forward acknowledged that retirement would arrive “soon” and anticipated an intensely emotional farewell.
The revelation emerged during his latest collaboration with Morgan, marking their second high-profile interview following the explosive 2022 discussion that precipitated his Manchester United exit.
The ageing superstar’s candid admission suggests professional football will shortly lose one of its greatest practitioners. When questioned directly about his retirement timeline, Ronaldo responded: “Soon.”
The forward elaborated on the emotional toll he anticipates, stating: “I think I will be prepared. It will be tough, of course. Will be difficult, yes. Probably I will cry, yes…” This acknowledges the challenges ahead and demonstrates unusual vulnerability from a player renowned for his supreme confidence throughout his decorated career.
Ronaldo remains under contract with Al Nassr through the conclusion of the 2026/27 campaign. His appearance on Morgan’s platform signifies a renewed collaboration, three years after their controversial exchange that hastened his departure from Manchester United.
That prior encounter proved pivotal in severing his second spell at Old Trafford. Their latest discussion yielded significant revelations about the twilight of his unparalleled career. The timing of this announcement, while still competing at a professional level in the Middle East, underscores Ronaldo’s methodical approach to managing his legacy.
Beyond retirement plans, the former Real Madrid galactico offered forthright observations about Manchester United’s current circumstances. Despite maintaining affection for his former employer, he suggested the club was “not on a good path” during the Morgan interview.
These observations arrive as United navigate a transitional period under new management, making the timing particularly poignant given Ronaldo’s acrimonious 2022 departure following public disagreements with then-manager Erik ten Hag.
The football world watches keenly, aware that the end of an era may soon draw near, as Ronaldo continues to captivate fans with both his talent and the looming spectre of farewell.
