Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed his intention to become a football club owner after retirement, ruling out a career in coaching as he approaches his 40th birthday this Wednesday.
The former Manchester United star, who continues to shine at Al-Nassr, made the announcement during an interview with Spanish television station La Sexta.
“Owning a club makes more sense,” Ronaldo declared, whilst describing a coaching career as “almost impossible” given his personality.
The Portuguese superstar is still performing at an exceptional level for Al-Nassr, having netted 23 goals and provided four assists in 25 appearances this season.
Cristiano Ronaldo might enter into football club ownership
PA
His impressive form was on display as recently as Monday, when he struck twice against Al-Wasl in the AFC Champions League.
Overall, Ronaldo has maintained remarkable consistency in Saudi Arabia, amassing 87 goals in 95 matches since joining Al-Nassr.
Speaking to La Sexta, Ronaldo elaborated on why coaching doesn’t appeal to him: “I don’t think my personality is well suited to being a coach. Almost impossible.
“I have been in football all my life… and being a coach is more complicated than being a player.”
When discussing club ownership, he remained open but cautious: “That is something that makes more sense.
Cristiano Ronaldo is out of contract with Al Nassr at the end of the season
REUTERS
“It is not something I rule out, if there is a good business. I do not have a club in my head, football is very momentary.”
Ronaldo’s future remains uncertain as his Al-Nassr contract is set to expire this summer, though he shows no signs of slowing down.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains confident in his abilities, stating: “I could quit the sport today and I wouldn’t regret anything, but it would be a shame because I’m still very good.
“I would leave myself saying ‘I can still make a difference for another year or two’, that’s why I live very much in the present and I can’t think long term,” he added.
Ronaldo’s potential career shift comes after his second departure from Manchester United in November 2022, where his contract was terminated by mutual consent.
During his second spell at Old Trafford, which began in September 2021 following his move from Juventus, he scored 27 goals in 54 appearances.
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Cristiano Ronaldo has no plans to move into coaching
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His subsequent move to Saudi Arabia has proven highly successful, with his remarkable tally of 87 goals in 95 matches demonstrating he remains a prolific goalscorer even in the latter stages of his career.
Al Nassr currently sit third in the Saudi Pro League table and have already secured their spot in the knockout stages of the AFC Champions League Elite.