Cristiano Ronaldo Reveals Plan for Secret Retirement, No Interest in Coaching

Cristiano Ronaldo, the football legend still playing at 39, has shared his surprising plan to retire from international duty in secret. The Portugal and Al-Nassr star has made it clear that he has no interest in becoming a coach after his illustrious playing career ends.

Speaking to Portuguese channel NOW ahead of Portugal’s upcoming Nations League matches, Ronaldo revealed that when he decides to retire from playing for his country, it will be a private and unannounced decision. “When I leave the national team, I won’t tell anyone in advance, and it will be a very spontaneous decision on my part, but also a very well thought-out one,” Ronaldo said.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star emphasized that his current focus is on continuing to contribute to the Portuguese national team. “Right now, what I want is to be able to help the national team in their upcoming matches. We have the Nations League ahead of us, and I would really like to play,” he added.

Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Ronaldo still feels he has much to offer on the pitch. His determination to keep playing highlights his enduring passion for the game. “I still have more to give,” Ronaldo stated, underlining his commitment to both his club and country.

However, when it comes to life after football, Ronaldo has no desire to step into a coaching role. “At the moment, I’m not thinking about being a coach of the first team or any team. It doesn’t even cross my mind; I’ve never thought about it. I don’t see my future going through that,” Ronaldo explained. Instead, he envisions a different path for himself, though he remains uncertain about what exactly that will entail. “I see myself doing other things outside of football, but only God knows what the future holds,” he said.

Ronaldo’s career is widely regarded as one of the greatest in football history, with numerous accolades and records to his name. Yet, even as he approaches 40, the former Juventus star shows no signs of slowing down. His fans can expect to see him in action for Al-Nassr in their Saudi Pro League match against Al-Feiha on Tuesday, and potentially representing Portugal in their Nations League opener against Croatia on September 5.

While Ronaldo’s eventual retirement will undoubtedly mark the end of an era, it appears that he will choose to exit the stage quietly, on his own terms, and without the fanfare that usually accompanies such an announcement. Until then, the football world will continue to watch as he adds to his already legendary career.