Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement plans confirmed after Saudi transfer decision

20 January 2024 , 08:00

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Cristiano Ronaldo has previously claimed his time in Europe is "over" (Image: Getty Images)

Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to call time on his playing career while at Al-Nassr, meaning he may have one more big transfer lined up.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner joined the Saudi Pro League swiftly after leaving Premier League giants Manchester United under a cloud. Ronaldo had taken part in an explosive interview with Piers Morgan, during which he took aim at everything from the Red Devils' owners to current manager Erik ten Hag.

Ronaldo's comments made his own position at Old Trafford untenable and his contract was terminated by mutual consent. Weeks later, he put pen to paper on a lucrative deal with the Saudi side, but it appears as if Al-Nassr is not where he sees himself ending what has been an illustrious career.

In the immediate aftermath of his arrival in the Middle East, Ronaldo told the media that he considered his time in Europe "over" and that he was keen on conquering another continent. He claimed: "I am fortunate that I have won everything I set out to win in European football. I feel now that this is the right moment to share my experience in Asia."

However, Rudi Garcia, who was manager of Al-Nassr at the time of Ronaldo's signing but was sacked four months later, insisted that the five-time Champions League winner will play for a European side once again.

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Speaking in January of last year, Garcia told reporters: " Cristiano Ronaldo is a positive addition, as he helps to disperse defenders. He is one of the best players in the world. He will not finish his career at Al-Nassr, he will return to Europe.”

In that time, Ronaldo has shown no sign of slowing down on the goalscoring front. In fact, the Portugal captain ended 2023 as the top goal scorer at club level across the world, with 54 strikes in 59 Al-Nassr games.

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Cristiano Ronaldo ended 2023 as the top goalscorer in the world at club level (Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

In response to the achievement, Ronaldo took to Instagram and addressed those who feel his career is winding down. He wrote: "54 -- I'll say when it's finished! Thanks, team."

Ronaldo has recently been the subject of interest from a Premier League side, with Newcastle United believed to be mulling over a potential bid to bring the football icon back to the English top flight. The Magpies share the same owners as Al-Nassr in the Public Investment Fund (PIF).

The 38-year-old last discussed his long-term aims back in October when he revealed: "Things have happened in my life, both on a personal and professional level, that make me think more in the short term nowadays. People say I’m going to play on until I’m 40 or 41 years old. I don’t set these targets. It’s a question of just enjoying the moment, which is a good moment.

"I feel good. My body is responding to how I’ve treated it over the years. I’m happy both at my club and in the Selecao. I’ve scored plenty of goals, I feel in good shape physically. It’s a question of enjoying the moment."

Josh O'Brien