Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that he could play for another three years – which would potentially allow him to take part in one final World Cup.
The 39-year-old, who is under contract with Al Nassr until 2025, also stressed that a return to Europe is unlikely amid rumors of an emotional return to Sporting Lisbon.
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Ronaldo’s partner Georgina Rodriguez hinted in March that the Manchester United icon could end his glittering career next year, sending his fans into a nervous breakdown.
But the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has now declared that he will not end his football career so quickly, but wants to end his career in the Middle East.
He told NOW: “I don’t know if I’ll retire soon, in two or three years… but I’ll probably retire here at Al Nassr.”
READ MORE ABOUT CRISTIANO RONALDO
“I am very happy at this club, I also feel comfortable in this country. I am happy to play in Saudi Arabia and I want to continue.”
If Portugal captain Ronaldo continues for at least two more seasons, he would qualify for the 2026 World Cup, which would be his last chance at glory.
It is the only major trophy that has eluded him in his illustrious career and which sets him apart from his rival Lionel Messi.
And Ronaldo has stressed that it would be a surprise to everyone when the time came for him to retire from the national team.
Ronaldo, who could face Croatia and Scotland next month, said: “I will not tell anyone in advance when I leave the national team.
“It will be a very spontaneous decision on my part, but also a very well considered one.
“At the moment I want to be able to help the national team in the upcoming games.
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“We have the Nations League ahead of us and I would love to play.”
Ronaldo recently made YouTube history with his new channel, where he gained one million subscribers in less than 90 minutes.
At the time of writing, he has over 48 million subscribers – reaching that number faster than any other content creator.
And it seems that Ronaldo will be keen to remain involved in this area even after his retirement, as he stated that he has no role as a manager.
He noted: “At the moment I am not thinking about becoming a first team coach or any other team.
“It doesn’t even occur to me, I’ve never thought about it. I can’t imagine that being my future.
“I can imagine doing other things outside of football, but only God knows what the future holds.”
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