Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal star says he will 'probably' retire in ...

Published 27/08/2024 at 13:43 GMT

Cristiano Ronaldo says he will “probably” end his career at Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

Speaking to Portuguese TV channel Now, the 39-year-old revealed his retirement plans as he reaches the twilight of his decorated career.

The former Manchester United superstar has been linked with a return to Sporting Lisbon, where he started his career, but says he is “happy” in Saudi Arabia and sees himself retiring at his current club.

"I don't know if I will retire soon, in two or three years, but probably I will retire here at Al Nassr," he said.

"I'm happy at this club, I feel good in this country too. I'm happy to play in Saudi Arabia and I want to continue."

Ronaldo has scored 898 goals during his career, including at Real Madrid, Juventus and two separate spells at United, with 130 coming at international level.

After failing to score in five matches for Portugal at Euro 2024, many speculated whether his international career was coming to a close.

However, Ronaldo says he is keen to continue playing for his country, adding that any decision about retirement will be “very well thought-out”.

"When I leave the national team, I won't tell anyone in advance and it will be a very spontaneous decision on my part, but also a very well thought-out one," he continued.

"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 also added that he has no interest in coaching once he does choose to hang up his boots, saying it “doesn’t even cross my mind”.

Portugal begin their UEFA Nations League campaign against Croatia on September 5, followed by a clash against Scotland on September 8.

From tears to triumph: Ronaldo's journey at European Championships

Ronaldo will receive a special award at the UEFA Champions League draw ceremony in Monaco on Thursday from UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, to honour his achievements in the competition.

In 183 Champions League appearances, Ronaldo has scored a record 140 goals, 11 more than Lionel Messi and 46 ahead of third-place Robert Lewandowski.

He has won the Champions League five times, four times with Real Madrid and once with Manchester United.

Watch the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League live on TNT Sports and discovery+