Will Cristiano Ronaldo retire after World Cup 2022? Portugal legend reveals future plans

Legendary Portugal talisman Cristiano Ronaldo never fails to hit the headlines. This summer, the Manchester United icon was embroiled in a widely spoken transfer saga. Now, ahead of the UEFA Nations League, the 37-year-old striker has dropped a massive hint about his future plans. The iconic footballer, who has been heralded as one of the sport's greatest players, revealed his ambition for Portugal as he received the country's top award on Tuesday night.

Ronaldo has struggled to find his place in Manchester United's starting XI this season as he has spent most of his time on the bench under new manager Erik ten Hag. After failing to secure a move away from Old Trafford in the summer transfer window, things are now looking up for the 37-year-old veteran as he scored his first goal of the season for the Red Devils in last week's Europa League victory at Sheriff.

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The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, whose future at Manchester United remains a bone of contention, is currently on international duty with Portugal. The team is gearing up to face the Czech Republic and Spain in the UEFA Nations League. And Ronaldo, who has scored a record 117 goals in 189 appearances for his nation, has now expressed a desire to keep captaining them after this winter's World Cup 2022 in Qatar to the European Championship in 2024 when he would be 39.

After bagging top honour at the Quinas de Ouro awards, Ronaldo said, "I hope to be a part of the Federation for a few more years. I still feel motivated, my ambition is high. My path in the national team is not over. We have many quality youngsters. I will be at the World Cup and I want to be at the European."

And on his latest award, which recognised Ronaldo as Portugal's all-time top scorer, the veteran striker added, "I am proud to receive an award of this magnitude. I never thought that one day I could achieve it. I thank everyone who was important in my career. It has been a long road, but I would like to say that my road is not over yet. Take a little more load from 'Cris'."

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Ronaldo also took to Instagram to thank his fans and all those who have supported him in this journey. "Proud to win the award for the best national scorer for the country that I love! Thanks again to all my teammates, coaches, my family, friends and all my fans who helped me to achieve this great achievement! Together we will continue to break all possible records! Thank you #Portugal," the iconic striker wrote.

Ronaldo captained Portugal to the first-ever Nations League victory in 2019. And the Manchester United legend will be eager to do it once more despite being off the pace this season at the club level. 

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