Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese footballer, has declared that he will be back for the 2026 World Cup. He announced that this will be his last major tournament, as he will retire from professional football after the tournament. At 41, just like Ronaldo, the aged List is tireless in pursuit of perfection along the outfield grass. He looks back on his storied career, which includes five Ballon d’Or awards as well as an incredible 953 career goals. He hopes to get past the 1,000 goal milestone before he retires. It’s this ambition that fuels his determination as he approaches the twilight of his illustrious playing career.
Ronaldo’s remarkable odyssey with the Portugal national team goes on! They’re anticipating an electrifying matchup against the Republic of Ireland. A victory in this playoff would secure their place in the World Cup. That would allow Ronaldo one last chance to dazzle on football’s greatest stage.
A Career Defined by Achievements
Since bursting onto the scene as a teenage football genius, Ronaldo has left everyone spellbound like no player in history. During his career, he has achieved five Ballon d’Or victories. This incredible feat now cements his impressive legacy, as he is truly one of the greatest players in the history of football.
He’s doing so while playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. So he must still have pleasant memories of his roots down at Manchester United, where he enjoyed fabulous success. He did say he was disappointed that the club has fallen on hard times.
“What are you gonna do? Miracles? Miracles are impossible. We say in Portugal, miracles are only in Fatima.” – Cristiano Ronaldo
He’s been quick, though, to acknowledge the individual talent in his squad. He’s skeptical that the relatively inexperienced new manager, Ruben Amorim, will be able to achieve a radical transformation at the club.
“You’re not gonna do miracles. Even the players. Manchester United have good players, but then some of them don’t have the mind, what is Manchester United.” – Cristiano Ronaldo
Reflecting on Retirement
Now closer to retirement, Ronaldo has started to consider the emotional impact it will have on him. He also confessed that he will “more than likely cry” when the day comes that he has to retire his boots. It illustrates how profoundly he relates to the game, and the key moments that have influenced his life’s path.
“It will be tough, of course. I probably will cry, yes… I’m an open person. It will be very, very difficult, yes.” – Cristiano Ronaldo
While not selected a specific retirement date, he suggested it would be sooner than that, perhaps “soon,” in the next one to two years. He’s been getting ready for life after football for a long time, having first thought seriously about his post-football career while still in his mid-twenties.
“When I mean soon, it’s: I’m going back in the days and tell you – I’m really enjoying the moment right now.” – Cristiano Ronaldo
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to the World Cup begins, Ronaldo’s focus remains on achieving personal milestones while contributing to Portugal’s success. His commitment to the pursuit of 1,000 career goals is a testament to his unyielding desire and love for the game.
With his record sixth World Cup on the horizon, fans worldwide will be watching closely as Ronaldo aims to leave a lasting legacy in football. His journey has inspired millions, and as he prepares for this final chapter, it is clear that Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence on the sport will endure long after his retirement.
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