What next for one of football’s greatest-ever players?

Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with football fans, is set to celebrate has just turned 40.

The Portuguese superstar currently plies his trade with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, a move that raised eyebrows across the footballing world when it was announced in late 2022.

But his decorated career at Real Madrid, Manchester United and Juventus will go down in history as one of the best ever.

His current contract, worth a staggering €200 million per year, runs until June 2025 – but the sporting icon is set to extend his stay in the Middle East.

This means he will be 41 years old by the time his new deal expires, a pivotal moment in any athlete’s career, especially one as decorated and scrutinised as Ronaldo.

He has given no indication that he will retire in 2026, especially with the World Cup taking place in the summer.

But no-one can play forever, and the question on everyone’s lips is: what next for one of the greatest players ever to grace the beautiful game?

Retirement – A life of luxury and leisure

One option for Ronaldo in 2026 is simply to retire. He has achieved almost everything imaginable in football, winning countless trophies, breaking records that seemed unbreakable, and cementing his place among the pantheon of footballing gods.

His financial security is beyond any reasonable doubt. With an estimated net worth in the hundreds of millions, Ronaldo could comfortably live a life of unparalleled luxury.

His annual earnings at Al-Nassr are astronomical, dwarfing the salaries of most professional athletes.

This income stream, coupled with his numerous endorsements and business ventures, provides him with a financial cushion that could sustain several generations of his family.

Imagine the possibilities: private islands, fleets of supercars, collections of priceless art, and anything he could ever wish for.

Ronaldo could travel the world, indulge his passions, and spend his days surrounded by family and friends, never having to lift a finger again.

He could become a full-time father, dedicating his time to raising his children and enjoying the fruits of his labour.

The a draw of a stress-free existence is undoubtedly tempting, especially after the relentless pressure and scrutiny of a career at the highest level of professional sport.

He could simply walk away, a king in his kingdom, leaving behind a legacy that will be spoken about for generations.

But the counter argument to that is – Ronaldo loves football too much to give it up before he has to.

Continuing to play – the unquenchable fire

The fire still seems to burn brightly within the Champions League, LaLiga and Premier League winner. He continues to train rigorously, maintaining the physique of a man much younger than his years.

He has often spoken of his desire to play for as long as possible, pushing the boundaries of what is considered possible for a footballer of his age.

The question is, how much longer can he realistically compete at a high level? While the Saudi Pro League is growing in stature, it is not the same level of competition as the top leagues in Europe.

The intensity, the pace, and the overall quality of play are different. Ronaldo’s move to Al-Nassr allowed him to continue playing regularly and earn a substantial income, but it also removed him from the European spotlight.

Could he make a return to European football before he finally hangs up his boots? It’s not beyond the realm of possibility.

While a move to a top-tier club might be unlikely, perhaps a stint at a slightly less demanding club in a competitive league could be on the cards.

A return to Sporting in Portugal perhaps, or a move to rival Lionel Messi in the MLS? This would allow him to test himself against quality opposition and potentially add to his already staggering goal tally.

Ultimately, the decision rests with Ronaldo himself. Does he still have the desire and the physical capabilities to compete at the highest level? Only he knows the answer.

When Ronaldo does eventually decide to call time on his playing career, a plethora of opportunities will undoubtedly present themselves.

His charisma, his knowledge of the game, and his global appeal make him a highly sought-after figure.

Could he transition into punditry, offering his insights and analysis on television? His presence would certainly attract viewers, and his opinions would carry weight.

Management is another avenue he could explore. While it requires a different skillset than playing, Ronaldo’s experience and understanding of the game could make him a successful coach.

He has played under some of the greatest managers in the world, learning from their tactics and leadership styles. Whether he has the patience and temperament required for management remains to be seen.

Perhaps a role as an ambassador for the game would be a better fit. Ronaldo could travel the world, promoting football and inspiring young players.

His influence and reach are immense, and he could use his platform to make a positive impact on the sport. He could also focus on his numerous business ventures, expanding his empire and solidifying his legacy as a successful entrepreneur.

Whatever Ronaldo chooses to do after he retires, one thing is certain – he will remain a prominent figure in the world of football.

Whether he chooses to bow out gracefully at 40, enjoying the fruits of his labour, or continues to defy expectations on the pitch, his next chapter will be eagerly anticipated by fans around the globe.