Cristiano Ronaldo says he will 'probably' retire this season, plans to have 'more fun'
Cristiano Ronaldo, widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, has suggested this season will be his last as a professional. Speaking to media, the 41-year-old Portuguese forward said he will 'probably' retire at the end of the campaign and expressed a desire to enjoy himself more during his remaining time in the sport. Ronaldo has been playing for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League since January 2023. The announcement, while not an official confirmation, sets a likely timeline for the end of a career spanning more than two decades at the elite level, including stints at Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and a return to Manchester United before his move to Saudi Arabia.
Read the full story at nytimes.comEven framed with hedging language ('probably'), a Ronaldo retirement signal is a significant moment for global football. For Al Nassr and the Saudi Pro League, his eventual departure will mark the end of the marquee signing era that began in 2023 and could accelerate questions about the league's post-star strategy. For Portugal and any club still relying on his output, it reinforces that his minutes must be managed carefully. The 'more fun' framing suggests he is approaching his final months as a celebration rather than a competitive farewell tour.
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Data source: nytimes.com (via Socc360). Last updated .
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