Cristiano Ronaldo has announced his intention to retire from professional football soon, admitting that ending his career will be emotionally difficult. The 40-year-old forward Al Nassr has already started planning his life outside of football and said he had been preparing for retirement since he was in his early twenties. Despite his readiness, Ronaldo admits that the thrill and adrenaline of scoring goals will be hard to replace.
Ronaldo’s playing career is marked by record-breaking achievements, including being the all-time leading goalscorer in football with 952 goals for club and country combined. He recently publicly stated that his goal is to reach 1,000 career goals.
During an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, the Portuguese superstar said that he will try to raise his children well and spend time with them after his time on the field.
“Soon,” said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner when asked when he would hang up his boots.
“I think I’ll be ready. It’s going to be very, very difficult,” he said in an interview with Piers Morgan’s Uncensored published on Tuesday.
“But I’ve been preparing my future since I was 25, 26, 27 years old. I think I’ll be able to handle the pressure. There’s nothing like the adrenaline you have when you score a goal in football.”
“But everything has a beginning and everything has an end. I will have more time for myself, for my family, for raising my children.”
MANCHESTER UNITED CONNECTION
Ronaldo’s connection with Manchester United remains strong and he is keeping a close eye on the team’s progress. The former United man said he was sad to see the club decline at the moment.
“I am sad because the club is one of the most important clubs in the world and a club that is still in my heart,” Ronaldo said.
“They don’t have structure. I hope that changes now and in the future because the potential of the club is amazing.
“They’re not on the right track. And it’s not just about the coach and the players in my opinion… He (manager Ruben Amorim) is doing what he can. What are you going to do? Miracles are impossible.”
Ronaldo’s reflections reveal a player who values both his professional legacy and the importance of family and life outside of football. As he nears the end of an illustrious career, his goal of 1,000 goals and his enduring association with Manchester United continue to shape his legacy in the sport.
– The end
Published on:
November 5, 2025
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