Cristiano Ronaldo surprised football fans with his strongest hint yet that the end of his career is approaching, revealing that the 2026-2027 season could be his last on the pitch.
The Al Nassr captain’s remarks came just weeks after his sixth and final World Cup participation with the Portugal national team, opening the door for his permanent retirement from football in the summer of 2027.
What Did Cristiano Ronaldo Say About Retiring?
Speaking to Vogue magazine, Ronaldo stated: “This may indeed be my last year in football.”
The Portuguese star added: “I have planned for my future, and I want to leave an incredible legacy.”
Although the 41-year-old has not announced his final decision, his words represent the clearest indication of his possible retirement at the end of the new season, especially since the timeline coincides with the end of his current contract with Al Nassr.
Ronaldo had confirmed during the 2026 World Cup that it would be his last appearance in the tournament, before the Portuguese national team exited the competition following a defeat to Spain in the Round of 16.
Ronaldo’s Contract with Al Nassr
Ronaldo renewed his contract with Al Nassr in June 2025 for two seasons, extending his association with the Saudi club until June 30, 2027.
The Portugal captain joined “Al-Alami” in early 2023 after his departure from Manchester United, and has since become one of the most prominent faces contributing to the increased global interest in the Saudi Pro League.
Thus, Ronaldo could be playing his final season in an Al Nassr shirt before drawing the curtain on a professional career that began with Sporting Lisbon more than two decades ago.
Ronaldo’s Major Football Achievements
Ronaldo has built an exceptional legacy throughout his career with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al Nassr, winning the Ballon d’Or five times, as well as lifting the Champions League trophy five times.
The Portuguese star has secured league titles in England, Spain, and Italy, and led his national team to victory in Euro 2016 and the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025.
Furthermore, Ronaldo is the all-time top scorer in the Champions League and men’s international football. He has surpassed the 970 official career goals mark, making his impending retirement the end of one of the greatest journeys in the history of the game.
