Ronaldo Hints at Emotional Retirement, Says Goodbye to Football Is ‘Coming Soon’

Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that his illustrious career is nearing its end, admitting that retirement will come “soon” and will be an emotional moment for him.

In a heartfelt interview with Piers Morgan Uncensored, the 40-year-old Portugal and Al Nassr forward opened up about his plans for life after football, acknowledging that saying goodbye to the sport that defined his life will be difficult.

“Soon. But I think I will be prepared,” Ronaldo said when asked about retirement. “It will be tough, of course. Probably I will cry. I’m an open person, and it will be very, very difficult.”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who has scored an incredible 952 career goals and remains under contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr until 2027, said he has long been preparing for life beyond the pitch.

“I’ve been planning my future since I was 25, 26, 27. I think I’ll be capable of handling that pressure,” he explained. “Nothing compares to the adrenaline of football, of scoring goals. But everything has a beginning and an end.”

Ronaldo added that he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family and pursuing other interests. “I’ll have more time for myself and my family, to raise my kids,” he said. “Cristiano Junior is growing up fast, and I want to guide him. Mateo loves football too. I also enjoy playing Padel with friends, it’s something fun that I love doing.”

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Ronaldo spoke fondly of his days at Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. During his first spell at United, he won three Premier League titles and a Champions League before becoming Real Madrid’s all-time leading scorer.

Since joining Al Nassr in 2022, Ronaldo has remained one of the biggest names in world football, even as he contemplates the next chapter of his life.

He also expressed affection for Manchester United and its current manager, Ruben Amorim, who was once his Portugal teammate. However, he cautioned fans against expecting “miracles” from Amorim amid the club’s current challenges.

“He’s doing his best,” Ronaldo said. “But miracles? They’re impossible. Manchester United is still in my heart, but they’re not on the right path. The club needs more than a new coach—it needs real change.”

As one of the most decorated athletes in sports history prepares to hang up his boots, fans around the world are bracing for the emotional farewell of a football icon whose influence has transcended generations.