Cristiano Ronaldo will retire from football within one or two years. The captain of Portugal shared this after the match against Poland, where, at 39 years old, he still showcased his skills with a bicycle kick.
Embed from Getty Images
Cristiano Ronaldo once again showcased why he remains one of football’s biggest stars, even at 39 years old.
In Portugal’s recent match against Poland, the iconic striker delivered a stunning performance, scoring two goals and providing an assist in a 3-1 victory. The highlight of the evening came in the 87th minute when Ronaldo executed an impressive bicycle kick, proving that age is just a number for him. The acrobatic goal left the crowd in awe, and Ronaldo himself seemed pleased with his display. "I still need to watch it back to assess the difficulty, but I think it was beautiful," he said, according to A Bola, a Portuguese sports newspaper.
This remarkable performance was another chapter in Ronaldo’s storied career, bringing his total goal count to an astounding 910. This milestone places him closer than ever to the elusive 1,000-goal mark, a feat that few players have even dreamed of achieving. Despite the hype surrounding this potential record, Ronaldo downplayed its significance, emphasizing that he is focused on enjoying the game rather than chasing statistics. "The 1,000 goals don’t matter to me at all. It’s normal to want to reach that, but I don’t think about it," he stated. The forward, currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, remains humble about his achievements, even as he continues to break records.
Ronaldo’s mindset has shifted in recent years as he approaches the twilight of his career. While the competitive drive is still there, he seems more focused on savoring the moments on the pitch. The Portuguese legend, who will turn 40 on February 5, 2025, is already contemplating his retirement, hinting that it could come in the next year or two. "It will happen in one or two years," he acknowledged. "It’s about enjoying the moment and football. You have to stay motivated for training and matches. I’m aiming to still play at 40. I’m taking it easy and enjoying it."
The statement reflects a player who, after more than two decades at the top, understands the importance of balance and self-care. Ronaldo’s career has been characterized by an unparalleled work ethic, with countless stories of his dedication to training and preparation. However, as he nears 40, there is a sense that he is embracing a more relaxed approach, focusing on maintaining his fitness and longevity rather than pushing for every accolade.
Ronaldo’s influence on the Portugal national team remains significant, but he is also mindful of the need for rest and recovery. Ahead of their upcoming match against Croatia, it was announced that Ronaldo, along with key players Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Pedro Neto, will be rested. This decision was made by head coach Roberto Martínez, who recognized the importance of preserving his top stars for the challenges ahead. In their absence, Martínez has called up Fábio Silva and Geovany Quenda, providing an opportunity for younger players to showcase their talent.
Portugal’s current squad reflects a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, a strategy that has paid off in recent tournaments. The inclusion of young talents like Fábio Silva signals a focus on building for the future, even as they continue to rely on the experience of seasoned players like Ronaldo. For the younger players, sharing the field with a legend like Ronaldo is an invaluable experience, offering them a chance to learn from one of the greatest players of all time.
Despite his looming retirement, Ronaldo’s presence continues to inspire both teammates and fans alike. His commitment to the game, even at this stage of his career, is a testament to his passion and dedication. Whether he retires in one year or two, his legacy in football is already cemented. From his early days at Sporting Lisbon to his record-breaking stints at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, and now his venture in Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has left an indelible mark on the sport.
As he nears the end of his career, the football world will undoubtedly be watching every match, every goal, and every assist with a sense of nostalgia. The thought of football without Ronaldo is difficult for many to imagine, given the impact he has had on the game. His career has been filled with memorable moments, from Champions League victories to international triumphs with Portugal, including their historic win at the 2016 European Championship.
The upcoming match against Croatia marks another chapter for the Portuguese national team as they prepare for future competitions without the guaranteed presence of their talisman. Roberto Martínez’s decision to rest key players shows a strategic approach, aiming to manage player fitness while also testing the depth of his squad. It is an exciting time for Portuguese football, as they transition into a new era while still having the privilege of witnessing Ronaldo’s magic on the field, albeit with fewer appearances.
In the coming months, the focus will likely shift to how Ronaldo manages his final years in professional football. Will he continue to play beyond 40, or will he decide to hang up his boots sooner? Regardless of the timeline, fans around the world are cherishing these final moments of an extraordinary career, knowing that players like Ronaldo come along once in a lifetime. His legacy is not just in the goals he has scored but in the way he has transformed the game, inspiring millions with his talent, work ethic, and sheer love for football.
Whether or not he reaches the 1,000-goal milestone, Cristiano Ronaldo’s place in football history is already secure. As he said himself, it’s about enjoying the moment, and right now, the world is enjoying every moment he continues to grace the pitch.
Updated: 10:31, 16 Nov 2024
