The date of Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement has now been disclosed.

August 15, 2024 12:16 PM

Rio Ferdinand has provided some insight into when his former Manchester United teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, might start considering retirement. Even at 39, Ronaldo remains at the top of his game, leaving fans to speculate about how much longer he’ll continue to play.

Ronaldo's Career Achievements So Far Ronaldo, who netted 50 goals for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League last season, continues to impress. He recently led his team to the final of the Super Cup in the opening matches of the 2024-25 season. However, his recent goalless streak during Euro 2024 raised doubts about his ability to maintain his high standards. Despite this, Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, has a history of silencing his critics.

There’s been talk that Ronaldo might play through to the 2026 World Cup, particularly since he has already earned 212 international caps and could add more to his historic record before retiring. Yet, Ronaldo has not publicly disclosed any plans for his future.

Ferdinand's Remarks Ferdinand, however, hinted that he might have some inside information about his former Old Trafford colleague. On his ‘Rio Reacts’ show, Ferdinand alluded to Ronaldo's retirement plans: “I can’t give too much away, but I’ve been working with Cristiano on a few things behind the scenes, and he’s playing for as long as he wants. He’s not going anywhere. And I was shocked. You’ll see in time, but I think he’s going to play for at least another three years.”

Ronaldo is currently in the last year of his contract with Al-Nassr, and there has been no word of an extension. Rumors have persisted about a potential return to Sporting CP, where he might conclude his illustrious career.

Ferdinand’s comments suggest that even as he approaches 40, Ronaldo is far from ready to leave the game. If Ferdinand’s predictions hold true, fans can expect to see the football legend on the pitch for at least another three years, continuing to defy the odds and build on his already remarkable legacy.