Ronaldo's Retirement Countdown: When Will the Football Icon Hang Up His Boots?

Cristiano Ronaldo says he'll retire "soon" after years of thinking about stepping away from football. The 40-year-old Portuguese star, who holds the record for most career goals with 952 strikes, admits he's been preparing for this moment since his mid-twenties.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner spoke candidly about his future in an interview with Piers Morgan. "I'm ready for this decision even though it's extremely difficult," Ronaldo said. "But I've been preparing for my future since I was 25, 26, or 27 years old."

Just last month, the Al Nassr player said he wanted to reach 1,000 career goals before hanging up his boots. But now he seems more focused on what comes after football. "Nothing compares to the adrenaline you feel when scoring a goal," he explained. "But everything has an end. I'll have more time for myself, my family, and raising my children."

Ronaldo also shared his thoughts on Manchester United's struggles. The club finished 15th in the Premier League last season - their worst position since the 1973-74 campaign when they were relegated. "I'm sad because United is one of the most prestigious clubs in the world, and it's the club I still love with all my heart," he said.

The former United striker, whose second stint at Old Trafford ended unhappily three years ago, believes the problems run deeper than just coaching and players. "The club's image has been damaged, and I hope that changes immediately because United has incredible potential," Ronaldo said. "I think [manager Ruben Amorim] is doing his best. But what can he do? The time of miracles is over."

For Ronaldo, retirement planning started early in his career. This approach shows in how he talks about the transition - not as an ending he fears, but as a next chapter he's ready for. His comments suggest football's most prolific goalscorer is closer to walking away than many fans might expect.