Earlier this year, Ronaldo revealed today he plans to end his career with current club Al Nassr but not for a long time which stunned many as the 40 year old continues to show how age is just a number.
“I don’t know if I will retire soon, in two or three years, but probably I will retire here at Al Nassr,” Ronaldo told Portuguese channel NOW.
“I’m very happy at this club, I feel good in this country too. I’m happy to play in Saudi Arabia and I want to continue.”
The Portuguese international has had one of the most successful careers in football history but soon his age wil catch up to him and he may have to think about moving into management if he desires to stay in football. Speaking to Poker Strategy, Meulensteen has revealed that he thinks he should take the Portugal job where he would be an inspirational figure.
“I can see Cristiano Ronaldo managing Portugal, but it will depend on whether he feels he needs the experience of managing a football club first. If Cristiano does go into management, he will take many of his traits as a player into his role as a manager. His dedication and determination to succeed will follow him into whatever role he takes.
“Having said that, in today’s game, there’s a big difference between a manager and a coach. For example, Sir Alex Ferguson was the manager of Man United, but coaches like Mike Phelan and myself ran the training sessions with the team. If Ronaldo does go on to manage his national team, he’ll need the right coaching support around him.
The 39-year-old started all of Portugal’s matches at Euro 2024, where they reached the quarter-finals before losing to France on penalties. He would be someone to look up to within in the side who have stuggled in recent years. Meulensteen also suggested that managing in the Saudi Pro League could be an option for the winger who has now spent several years there.
“Alternatively, he might prefer to start off at a domestic club. Perhaps he’ll move up to a managerial role at Al-Nassr or even be invited to lead the Saudi National team; either are realistic outcomes.”