Cristiano Ronaldo has lit up the Premier League since rejoining Manchester United in the summer. Although his tally of eight goals in 16 matches is not particularly eye-catching given his lofty standards, he has been the club’s top scorer this term in all competitions.
The presence of a generational footballer like Ronaldo in the Premier League has also driven an increased viewership in the Premier League. In addition to his performances, the athlete has received rave reviews for his fitness and ability to perform well at the highest level of the game. But at the age of just 36, it begs the question, when will the Portuguese ever retire?
In a recent interview with ESPN, Ronaldo offered some clarity over his future plans, not only at Manchester United but regarding his overall career. The Real Madrid icon hopes he can continue for at least four to six more years, which would make him eligible to participate in the 2026 World Cup.
“I want to find out if I’m going to play until I’m 40, 41 or 42. But the most important thing is that my daily goal is to enjoy the moment”, said Ronaldo, who, earlier this week, had opened up about Manchester United’s struggles in the Premier League.
The Portuguese international also defended new coach Ralf Rangnick, suggesting that the former RB Leipzig manager needs more time to get his ideas across to the new players, amid criticism from several pundits and ex-players, including Paul Scholes, who had questioned Rangnick’s credibility earlier this month.
Currently dawdling at seventh in the Premier League, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Manchester United are hoping for an upturn of fortune when they take on Aston Villa later this evening.