Cristiano Ronaldo Admits Career Nearing End as Al-Nassr Edge Toward Saudi Pro League Title

By: Shawn
‎Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that the end of his illustrious football journey is approaching, even as he continues to perform at a high level for Al-Nassr. Now aged 41, the Portuguese forward remains central to his team’s ambitions but recognizes that his time at the top cannot last forever.
‎
‎Cristiano Ronaldo speaks candidly about approaching retirement while continuing to inspire and lead Al-Nassr in their strong push for Saudi Pro League success.
‎Getty Images Sport 

‎In midweek action, Ronaldo added another milestone to his career by scoring his 970th goal during a 2-0 win over Al-Ahli. While the achievement highlights his enduring excellence, it also comes at a time when he is increasingly reflecting on his future in the sport.
‎
‎After the match, Ronaldo spoke openly about what keeps him motivated. He explained that his passion goes beyond the present moment, as he aims to influence past, current, and future generations. Despite nearing retirement, he continues to embrace each game and season with enthusiasm.
‎
‎His career path has spanned multiple leagues and continents, producing a legacy few can rival. From his early development at Sporting CP to his celebrated periods at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, Ronaldo has accumulated numerous honours, including five Ballon d'Or titles and five Champions League victories.
‎
‎Even with such an impressive record, Ronaldo remains focused on finishing his career strongly. He expressed a clear desire to maintain his high standards, emphasizing that success on the pitch, particularly winning trophies, still drives him.
‎
‎Al-Nassr are currently in a strong position domestically, sitting eight points clear at the top of the Saudi Pro League standings. Although rivals have games in hand, the team’s recent form has strengthened their chances of securing the title.
‎
‎Ronaldo continues to play a decisive role in that push. His ability to consistently find the net, even at this stage of his career, has proven crucial in keeping his side ahead. His latest goal serves as another reminder of his sharp instincts in front of goal.
‎
‎Beyond club football, attention may soon turn to the international stage. With the World Cup on the horizon, there is growing anticipation that it could represent the final chapter of Ronaldo’s playing career, potentially coinciding with a long-awaited league triumph in Saudi Arabia.

MORE FROM THE NOLLYWOOD ABOVE

Pep Guardiola to Leave Manchester City After FA Cup and Carabao Cup Wins as Enzo Maresca Emerges

Image
‎After a decade filled with trophies and record-breaking achievements, Pep Guardiola is expected to leave Manchester City at the end of the season. ‎ ‎Sources familiar with the situation indicate Guardiola is preparing to depart this summer despite having a contract running until June 2027. His exit would conclude one of the most successful managerial spells English football has seen. ‎ Manchester City are preparing for Pep Guardiola’s departure, with Enzo Maresca tipped to become the club’s next manager. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎City’s FA Cup final victory over Chelsea FC on Saturday delivered Guardiola’s 20th major trophy with the club. Combined with their Carabao Cup success earlier this season, the campaign has added more silverware to an already historic era. ‎ ‎Attention has now turned toward Guardiola’s successor, with Enzo Maresca expected to step into the role. The former Chelsea head coach had already been identified in December by The Athletic as a leading can...
Read more

Rene Meulensteen Explains Why Memphis Depay Never Became a Consistent Star at Europe’s Biggest Clubs

Image
Memphis Depay has enjoyed a career filled with high-profile moves, major clubs, and international recognition, yet questions remain over whether the Dutch forward could have achieved even more at the highest level of European football. The former PSV Eindhoven star currently plays for Sport Club Corinthians Paulista in Brazil after previous spells with Manchester United, FC Barcelona, Olympique Lyonnais and Atletico Madrid. Although he has earned 108 appearances for the Netherlands national football team, he never truly became a dominant figure for Europe’s elite clubs. ‎ ‎Memphis Depay’s former coaches explain why the Dutch forward struggled to consistently shine at Europe’s top clubs. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) Memphis’ rise began in the Eredivisie, where his performances for PSV and Golden Boot-winning campaign convinced United to invest £25 million ($34m) in the attacker in 2015. Supporters at Old Trafford believed the talented winger could become one of the Premier League...
Read more

Mourinho Plays Down Real Madrid Return Talk, Praises Roma Experience

Image
‎Jose Mourinho has addressed increasing speculation surrounding a potential return to Real Madrid, firmly shifting attention back to his current responsibilities with Benfica. The experienced coach also reflected on his past, highlighting his time at AS Roma as the most meaningful chapter of his career. ‎ ‎Jose Mourinho reacts to Real Madrid return speculation, confirms focus on Benfica, and names Roma as the most memorable experience of his coaching career. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Madrid speculation grows ‎ ‎Reports have suggested that Real Madrid could be considering Mourinho as a replacement for Alvaro Arbeloa, with club president Florentino Perez reportedly leading efforts to bring the Portuguese manager back. The Spanish giants, known for their European dominance, are said to be searching for stability after a difficult period. ‎ ‎Despite the growing links, Mourinho avoided engaging directly with the speculation, choosing instead to remain focused on his current ro...
Read more

Austin FC Sack Coach Nico Estevez and Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell After Poor MLS Run

Image
Austin FC have announced sweeping changes ahead of the World Cup break, confirming the departures of head coach Nico Estevez and sporting director Rodolfo Borrell after a difficult start to the MLS season. The club made the announcement on Monday following another disappointing result, a 2-1 home defeat against Sporting Kansas City. Despite earning three points, Sporting KC remain bottom of the Western Conference after winning only two of their opening 12 matches. The loss came shortly after Austin FC suffered a crushing 5-0 defeat to San Diego FC, the heaviest loss in club history. ‎ ‎Austin FC part ways with Nico Estevez and Rodolfo Borrell after disappointing MLS results and poor Western Conference form. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ Austin FC confirmed that a search for both a new sporting director and head coach is already underway. The club has appointed Excel Sports Management’s executive search division, Excel Search & Advisory, to oversee the recruitment process d...
Read more

FIFA Rush to Introduce 'Anti-Arsenal Law' for the World Cup in Latest Set of Rule Changes—England Singled Out

Image
‎A new World Cup regulation, already being labelled the “anti-Arsenal law,” is set to reshape how set pieces are played, with FIFA and IFAB introducing stricter enforcement against blocking during corners and free kicks. ‎ ‎The updated rule focuses on eliminating pushing, shoving, and obstructive movement that prevents defenders from challenging for the ball. It specifically targets situations where attacking players act as blockers before the ball is delivered, a practice increasingly common in modern set-piece routines. ‎ ‎World Cup set-piece rule change bans blocking at corners, impacting Premier League tactics and Arsenal’s style. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎Under the new interpretation, players can now be penalised even before the ball is kicked if they are found obstructing an opponent’s movement. The rule has been inspired by concepts seen in basketball, where screening opponents is tightly regulated. ‎ ‎The change will be implemented at the upcoming World Cup and roll...
Read more

Antony Declares 'Best Season' After Matching Kylian Mbappe Record in La Liga

Image
‎Antony’s resurgence in Spanish football showed no signs of slowing down after the Real Betis winger reached another impressive milestone in La Liga. The Brazilian scored in Betis’ 2-2 draw against Real Sociedad, drawing level with Kylian Mbappe for one of the league’s standout attacking statistics this season. ‎ ‎The former Manchester United winger has become increasingly dangerous from long range since moving to Spain. His strike at Anoeta was his fifth goal from outside the box in La Liga this season, putting him alongside Mbappe at the top of that category. ‎ ‎Antony continued his Real Betis resurgence by equaling Kylian Mbappe’s La Liga outside-the-box goal tally. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎The achievement reflects the growing confidence Antony has displayed under Manuel Pellegrini after struggling to consistently impress in the Premier League. His influence in the Betis attack has continued to grow as the season progresses. ‎ ‎Speaking after the match, Antony highligh...
Read more

Enzo Fernandez Salary: How Much Does Chelsea Star Earn Per Week and Annually in Premier League?

Image
‎Enzo Fernandez has quickly become a central figure in Chelsea’s evolving midfield since his high-profile arrival from Benfica in early 2023. After making headlines with his standout performances during Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph, the London club secured his services with a record-breaking transfer fee that underlined their faith in his long-term potential. ‎ Explore Enzo Fernandez’s Chelsea salary, how much he earns weekly and annually, and where he ranks among the Premier League’s top-paid stars. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Following his move to Stamford Bridge, Fernandez signed a contract that runs until 2032. The financial terms of that deal position him among Chelsea’s highest earners. ‎ ‎Here’s how much Enzo Fernandez earns at Chelsea: ‎ ‎• Weekly salary: £180,000 ‎ ‎• Annual salary: £9,360,000 ‎ ‎• Equivalent in USD (gross): $238,935 weekly / $12,424,613 annually ‎ ‎These figures place him as the fifth-highest earner at the club, ahead of several key teammat...
Read more

Marcus Rashford Determined to Stay at Barcelona Despite Anthony Gordon Transfer

Image
‎Marcus Rashford remains fully committed to extending his stay at Barcelona despite growing uncertainty following the arrival of Anthony Gordon. The Manchester United loanee is continuing to focus on securing a permanent move to the Spanish champions while relying on the backing of manager Hansi Flick. ‎ ‎Marcus Rashford remains focused on a permanent Barcelona stay despite Anthony Gordon’s arrival from Newcastle. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎The English forward recently delivered a clear statement through social media as speculation surrounding his future intensified. Posting a series of training images on Instagram, Rashford added the caption: “Keep it moving,” signalling his determination to ignore outside distractions and remain focused on his performances. ‎ ‎Questions over Rashford’s long-term future at Camp Nou have increased after Barcelona completed the signing of Gordon. Many viewed the blockbuster transfer as a sign that the club may decide against retaining Rashfor...
Read more

Arsenal Told to Upgrade Attack After Champions League Final Defeat to Paris Saint-Germain

Image
‎Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain has already triggered discussions about potential summer reinforcements, despite Mikel Arteta guiding the club to the Premier League title. ‎ ‎The Gunners suffered a painful 4-3 penalty shootout loss to PSG at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, and former Arsenal defender Martin Keown believes the result highlighted areas where the squad still needs improvement if they are to compete consistently at Europe’s highest level. ‎ ‎Martin Keown urges Arsenal to strengthen attack after Champions League final loss to PSG despite Premier League triumph. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎Keown identifies key positions for improvement ‎ ‎Speaking on TNT Sports after the final, Keown suggested Arsenal may still need to strengthen in the striker department and possibly on the left wing. ‎ ‎“They may look again at the striker. Kai Havertz played 90 minutes tonight but it’s only the second full game he’s finished in 18 months. With Viktor...
Read more

Cristiano Ronaldo Warned Against MLS Move Because He 'Doesn’t Have Lionel Messi Magic'

Image
‎Former MLS forward Bradley Wright-Phillips has advised Cristiano Ronaldo against making a move to Major League Soccer, suggesting the Portuguese icon may not enjoy the same success that Lionel Messi has experienced with Inter Miami CF. ‎ ‎Bradley Wright-Phillips warns Cristiano Ronaldo against joining MLS, claiming Lionel Messi still has the “magic” needed to dominate the league. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎Ronaldo, who currently represents Al-Nassr FC in the Saudi Pro League, has regularly been linked with a future switch to the United States before ending his playing career. However, Wright-Phillips believes the demands of MLS, combined with the pressure placed on global superstars, could create difficulties for the 41-year-old forward. ‎ ‎The former New York Red Bulls striker argued that Messi still possesses the ability to influence matches at the highest level, something he is uncertain Ronaldo can consistently produce in MLS. ‎ ‎Speaking through Covers.com soccer bettin...
Read more