Cristiano Ronaldo is evidently not slowing down. He has netted 43 goals in the calendar year. A phenomenal display for any soccer player, let alone a 38-year-old. However, most of his goals have come in the Saudi League, a few steps down in quality from European football. Factoring in his sub-par performances at the World Cup, it seemed inevitable that retirement would be around the corner for the Portuguese superstar. In a recent development, it looks like Ronaldo himself dropped hints about his retirement plans.

CR7’s move to the Saudi Pro League invited surprise and acclaim in equal measure. Having one of the GOATs of the game would immensely help develop the game in Asia and Saudi Arabia. However, it also brought forward the question- “Is the end of the line for Cristiano Ronaldo”?

Cristiano Ronaldo seemingly confirms the inevitable

There is a tweet on X from the account Al Nassr Zone making headlines. The tweet says that Ronaldo has decided against of idea of staying in Al Nassr until 2027. Instead, he has opted to renew the contract until 2026. Ronaldo would be over 40 in 2026. Despite his incredible fitness record and unrivaled injury history, even Ronaldo would find it hard to extend his playing career significantly beyond the age of 40. Also, 2026 offers him the final chance to complete his legacy. His last shot at winning the World Cup.

One thing that seems to help in Ronaldo’s favor is his tactical intelligence. Originally, a tricky wide winger in his United days, he evolved more into an inside forward at Real Madrid. At Juventus and in his return to Manchester United, we saw Ronaldo with the characteristics of a striker. This evolution means Ronaldo needs to utilize less athleticism and more intelligence. The ideal combination for a player looking to extend his playing career. However, does this new Ronaldo fit in well with the Portuguese squad?

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Ronaldo’s role in the 2026 World Cup

Portugal has lots of great attacking players. With Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings, Ronaldo will have chances galore. Portugal’s preferred attack in the last few matches included Ronaldo, Rafael Leao, and Goncalo Ramos. Ramos is an out-and-out striker which means Ronaldo has to be played on the wing or as a second striker. This is without taking into consideration Diogo Jota, and João Felix, who are in good form as well. All of them have age on their side as well. As a result, Cristiano Ronaldo will face a significant challenge to be in the starting 11.

Do you think Cristiano Ronaldo will play a significant role in the upcoming World Cup? Or should the team move on from the soccer icon? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch this story: Cristiano [Ronaldo] Knows He’s Living the Last Moments of His Career” – Coach Luis Castro Gives Emotional Response on Al Nassr Star’s Future