Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk
Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that his retirement from professional football is approaching, acknowledging that leaving the game he has devoted his life to will be one of the most emotional moments of his career. Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, the 40-year-old Al Nassr forward said he has been mentally preparing for this stage since his mid-to-late twenties, but admitted that nothing will ever replace the excitement of scoring a goal.
“Soon,” Ronaldo said when asked about when he plans to retire. “I think I will be prepared. It will be very, very difficult. But I have prepared my future since I was 25, 26, 27 years old. I think I will be capable to support that pressure. Nothing compares to the adrenaline you have scoring a goal in football. But everything has a beginning and everything has an end. I’m going to have more time for myself, for my family, to raise my kids.”
Ronaldo’s illustrious career has been defined by record-breaking achievements, including being football’s all-time leading goalscorer with 952 goals for club and country combined. Despite already cementing his place among the greatest players of all time, the Portuguese star has publicly stated that he aims to reach 1,000 career goals before calling time on his career.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also reflected on life beyond football, saying he wants to focus on his family and raising his children. He emphasized that he has long been planning for this transition, ensuring he’s ready to embrace a new chapter once he finally steps off the pitch.
Ronaldo also spoke about his continued emotional connection with Manchester United, the club where he rose to global fame. “I’m sad because the club is one of the most important in the world and one that I still have in my heart,” he said. “They don’t have a structure. I hope that changes in the present and future because the potential of the club is amazing. They are not on a good path. And it’s not only about the coach and players… miracles are impossible.”
His comments highlight both nostalgia and concern for the club that helped shape his early career. Despite his current focus on Al Nassr and Saudi Arabian football, Ronaldo’s heart clearly remains tied to Manchester.
As he nears the end of his playing days, Cristiano Ronaldo’s reflections paint the portrait of a man who has conquered every level of football yet continues to pursue excellence. Whether or not he reaches his goal of 1,000 career goals, his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game is already secure — and his next chapter, devoted to family and life beyond football, is about to begin.
