Ronaldo Reveals Plans to Retire ‘Soon’ and Expects He ‘Probably Will Cry’
Cristiano Ronaldo reveals his plans to retire “soon,” offering a rare glimpse into the emotional and practical considerations surrounding the end of his extraordinary footballing journey. The Portugal and Al Nassr star, who has captivated fans around the world with his skill, determination, and record-breaking goal tally, is preparing for the inevitable conclusion of a glittering career. Speaking candidly in an interview with Piers Morgan Uncensored, Ronaldo opened up about the bittersweet feelings that retirement will bring and how he plans to navigate life after football.
Preparing for Retirement: Ronaldo’s Emotional Reflection
Ronaldo’s admission that he expects to “probably will cry” as his football career winds down shows a deeply human side to the sports icon often seen as invincible. Despite his tough on-field persona, the 40-year-old striker acknowledged that the transition will be difficult. “It will be tough, of course. It will be difficult? Yes. Probably will cry, yes. I’m an open person,” he said, illustrating that even the greatest athletes experience vulnerability when facing an end to their lifelong passion.
What sets Ronaldo apart, however, is his readiness. He revealed that he has been preparing for his future beyond football since his mid-20s. “I prepare my future since 25, 26, 27 years old,” he noted, indicating a pragmatic approach that few athletes manage to sustain. This foresight is key to helping Ronaldo cope with the pressures and emotional upheaval that retirement can bring.
Life Beyond Football: Family and New Passions
Cristiano Ronaldo’s post-retirement vision revolves heavily around family and personal pursuits. Although nothing, he admits, will compare to the thrill and adrenaline of scoring goals and competing at the highest level, he looks forward to dedicating more time to his loved ones. “I’m going to have more time for me, I’m going to have more time for my family to raise my kids,” he explained.
Ronaldo has expressed a particular desire to support his children through their own formative years. “I want to follow Cristiano Junior because he’s at an age when kids do stupid things. I was the same. Mateo loves football as well,” Ronaldo shared, showing the protective and involved role he hopes to continue playing as a father.
Beyond family, Ronaldo is keen to explore different interests that might have taken a backseat during the peak of his sporting career. “I love playing Padel with my closest friends. We are getting quite good,” he said, hinting at a future where fun and camaraderie take priority. These off-field hobbies will provide him a meaningful way to stay active and connect with friends post-retirement.
A Legendary Career: Celebrating Ronaldo’s Legacy
Looking back at Ronaldo’s football journey highlights just how remarkable his achievements have been. Beginning with Sporting Lisbon, his rise was meteoric. His spells at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus solidified his reputation as one of the game’s all-time greats, winning numerous trophies including three Premier League titles and multiple UEFA Champions League successes.
In 2022, Ronaldo embarked on a new chapter by joining Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr. Although his contract runs until 2027, his honest remarks about retiring “soon” foreshadow the closing chapters of one of football’s most star-studded careers. Impressively, he has amassed an outstanding 952 goals, a testament to his longevity, skill, and relentless drive.
Staying Connected: Ronaldo’s Thoughts on Manchester United
Despite his move away from English football, Ronaldo remains connected to Manchester United, reflecting on the club’s turbulent recent period and its current manager, Ruben Amorim. The former Portugal teammate took the helm 12 months ago amid high expectations, and Ronaldo tempered fans’ hopes, cautioning that “miracles” shouldn’t be expected.
“He’s doing his best,” Ronaldo said of Amorim, “What are you going to do? Miracles. Miracles is impossible. They have good players but they don’t have, some of them, in mind what Manchester United is.”
This realistic outlook underscores Ronaldo’s understanding of the challenges football clubs face, particularly when rebuilding or undergoing transition. His enduring affection for the club and desire to see it succeed remain apparent, even from afar.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s openness about his upcoming retirement reveals a man prepared to say goodbye to the game that defined him but also excited about his next chapter. While the emotions will undoubtedly run high and tears may fall, Ronaldo’s foresight and passion for life beyond football promise an inspiring future. As one of the sport’s most iconic figures readies to step away from the spotlight, fans around the world will remember not just the goals and trophies but the humanity of a legend embracing change with grace.
