UEFA Nations League

[monks data]

Nations League | League A

Nov 15, 2024 at 7.45pm UK

Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica

Portugal
5 - 1
Poland

Leao (59'), Ronaldo (72' pen., 88'), Fernandes (80'), Neto (83')
Fernandes (25'), Neves (25'), Ronaldo (45+2'), Tavares (90+2')

FT(HT: 0-0)

Marczuk (88')
Bulka (56')

Cristiano Ronaldo drops retirement hint after breaking another record in Portugal thrashing

By Matt Law, Football Editor

Published: November 16 2024 | 07:29

Last updated: November 16 2024 | 13:13

Al-Nassr and Portugal goal machine Cristiano Ronaldo says that he is planning to retire "in one or two years", with the forward expected to compete at the 2026 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo has said that he is planning to retire "in one or two years", with the Al-Nassr forward expected to be a part of the Portugal squad that competes at the 2026 World Cup.

The 39-year-old has been in impressive form for Al-Nassr this season, scoring 10 goals and registering three assists in 15 appearances in all competitions, while he scored another two goals for Portugal on Friday night.

Ronaldo hit a brace in his national team's 5-1 success over Poland to make it five goals in four matches in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League, and he has now struck 135 goals in 215 appearances for his country.

The veteran has now been part of 132 victories for the Portuguese national team, which is a record for the most senior international wins by a male player, moving him ahead of Spain's Sergio Ramos.

Ronaldo is now on 910 career goals, and he remains a vital player for his country despite his advancing years.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring for Portugal on November 15, 2024 © Imago

Ronaldo says 'motivation' will play main role in his retirement decision

The forward has said that he has "one or two years" left in professional football, while he has all but ruled out stepping into management once he decides to hang up his boots.

"I just want to enjoy. Plan for the retirement... if it has to happen, in one or two years... I don't know. I'm turning 40 soon... I really want to enjoy, as long as I feel motivated I keep going. The day I don't feel motivated, I will retire," Ronaldo told reporters.

"When I decide to leave the national team, I'll do it spontaneously but thoughtfully. There won't be any advance announcements.

"I don't see myself managing a team; that's not in my plans. My future lies in other areas outside of football, although time will tell what happens."

Al-Nassr's Cristiano Ronaldo reacts in July 25, 2023 © Imago

What does Ronaldo's future hold at club level?

Ronaldo's current deal with Al-Nassr is due to expire in June 2025, and it remains to be seen whether the forward pens a new contract with the Saudi Pro League outfit.

The forward famously joined Al-Nassr on a free transfer in January 2023 following his departure from Manchester United, and he has represented the Saudi team on 79 occasions, scoring 68 goals and registering 18 assists in the process.

Ronaldo recently admitted that Al-Nassr were likely to be his final club, and it is understood that he could sign an extension with Stefano Pioli's side to take him until June 2026.

"Probably I will retire here at Al-Nassr," Ronaldo recently told NOW. "I'm very happy at this club, I feel good in this country too. I'm happy to play in Saudi Arabia and I want to continue."

Ronaldo's glittering career started at Sporting Lisbon in 2002, and he has also represented Man United (twice), Real Madrid and Juventus, cementing his spot as one of the best players of all time.