A potential insight into Cristiano Ronaldo’s future plans appears to have emerged inadvertently through a viral online video chat involving his son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.
The video captures Ronaldo Jr. engaged in a conversation with friends, although his face remains unseen. His presence is unmistakable through his recognizable voice and his video chat username, ‘Cris Jnr.’
During the chat, one of the participants, presumably Ronaldo Jr.’s friend, mentions, “I am coming to Saudi next year.”
In response, Junior swiftly comments, “Come this year, I probably won’t be here next year.” This exchange has ignited conjecture among soccer enthusiasts, hinting that Cristiano Ronaldo might be contemplating an end to his illustrious professional career in the following year.
Fans, voicing their thoughts on social media, have speculated, with some suggesting, “Ronaldo Is Highly Likely to Retire,” while others have chimed in with their own perspectives.
Friend: I am coming Saudi next year.
Cristiano JR: Come this year, i probably won’t be here next year.
👀
— CristianoXtra (@CristianoXtra_) August 12, 2023
Supporters have connected the dots, referencing earlier reports that Ronaldo is considering retiring from Portugal’s national team after the 2024 Euros held in Germany.
A faction of fans is hopeful that this development could potentially pave the way for Ronaldo’s return to European club soccer, with clubs like Sporting Lisbon emerging as a favored destination.
ronaldo is highly likely to retire after the euros so yeah it checks out
— Gonçalo 🇵🇹🇺🇸 (@GoncaloCFRM) August 12, 2023
The notion of concluding his career where he initiated it, at the Portuguese club where he began his journey at the turn of the century, holds strong appeal for fans.
Yet, Ronaldo, who has reached the age of 38, faces a potential challenge in making a comeback to European soccer. The idea, while captivating, might prove to be an ambitious pursuit for the ever-present and enduring athlete.
On this day: Cristiano Ronaldo joined Manchester United in 2003
Exactly two decades ago, Ronaldo embarked on his remarkable ascent to the pinnacle of European soccer, marking his entry into the ranks of the Premier League giants in 2003.
Under the tutelage of Sir Alex Ferguson, Ronaldo’s trajectory evolved dramatically. From a budding, promising winger, he blossomed into a world-class player, his growth unfolding before the eyes of fans and critics alike.
Spanning the years 2003 to 2009, Ronaldo’s influence on Manchester United’s success is undeniable, though often not given its due recognition.
Days without football: 4️⃣2️⃣
Cristiano Ronaldo scored 42 goals in 2007/08—his best season at United, and his first Ballon d’Or 🏆 pic.twitter.com/ofRJnOi0HK
— B/R Football (@brfootball) April 23, 2020
His pivotal role was evident as he contributed to the club’s capture of three Premier League titles consecutively from 2006/07 through 2008/09. Moreover, his prowess was instrumental in clinching the illustrious UEFA Champions League title for the English club in the 2007/08 season.
On an individual level, accolades flowed his way, with Ronaldo securing his inaugural Ballon d’Or award in 2008. His statistics during this era highlight his impact: a total of 292 matches played, 118 goals netted, boasting an average of 0.40 goals per game, and 61 assists provided.
The tally of 12 titles collected during his initial stint at Manchester United cemented his status as a beloved figure among the United faithful. He emerged as one of the Premier League’s most celebrated forwards, leaving an indelible mark on the club’s history.