Ronaldo leaves retirement decision open as final season speculation grows

Abdullateef Fowewe

Football star, Cristiano Ronaldo has refused to confirm whether the 2026–27 campaign will be the final season of his illustrious career.

In an interview on Wednesday Ronaldo noted that the decision will depend on his physical condition, mindset and form.

“This could be my final season. But I don’t know,” Ronaldo said when asked whether he was entering the final chapter of his career.

The 41-year-old Al-Nassr forward added, “If my body allows me to, and if my mind does too, and if I’m still in good shape, then I don’t know. I don’t know what will happen.”

Ronaldo’s latest comments appear more open-ended than remarks he made during an August 2026 interview with Vogue, when he described the 2026–27 Saudi Pro League season as “probably” his last.

His latest response suggests that retirement remains undecided, with Ronaldo prepared to continue playing if he believes he can maintain the required level.

“I’m still proving that I’m capable of being here,” he said.

“You have to prove yourself every day, and I’ve shown with both my clubs and the national team that I’m still scoring goals.”

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Ronaldo said he remains focused on two major objectives, winning the Nations League and reaching 1,000 career goals.

“The missions now are two: winning the Nations League and reaching 1000 career goals,” he said.

Ronaldo also stressed that he would accept whatever role the coach assigns him, including starting on the bench.

“I’m completely ready to play. If the coach wants me to start the match on the bench, I’m ready for that too. Even if I don’t play in the match, there won’t be a problem,” he stressed.

He added that squad management was the coach’s responsibility and emphasized the importance of every player contributing to the team’s campaign.

“We will need every player in order to start the campaign in the right way,” Ronaldo said.

Ronaldo also backed Jorge Jesus, expressing confidence that the coach was the right choice and predicting a lengthy spell in charge.

“It will be a long journey. The coach will remain for many years, and I wish him all the best. I am sure he was the best choice,” Ronaldo said.