Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United might have clouded his status as a club legend, but he remains a prominent football figure.
In November 2022, he departed Old Trafford by mutual agreement after a public dispute with former manager Erik ten Hag.
This departure was disappointing for many, but he still managed to score 145 goals in 346 appearances.
After a brief period without a club, he joined Al-Nassr in January 2023, making a significant impact in Saudi Pro League football.
At 41, Ronaldo aims to reach the 1,000-goal milestone before retiring.
He hopes to be part of Roberto Martinez’s 2026 World Cup squad for Portugal, although he was not included in the latest selection.
This is due to a hamstring injury that has kept him sidelined since February, missing two league matches.
Ronaldo’s recovery is crucial as he missed Portugal’s recent squad announcement ahead of the World Cup.
In his absence, Portugal played Mexico and ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw.
Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot from Manchester United participated in the match, and reports suggest they performed well.
Without Ronaldo, Portugal struggled, with Jose Mourinho noting that the team lacked attacking threat.
He remarked, “Without Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal looks like an average team. You saw the result today.”
He added, “With Ronaldo on the pitch, opponents take notice. Without him, there’s no fear.”
In February, it was reported that Mourinho could become the Portugal national team’s manager after Martinez’s contract ends following the World Cup.
It remains to be seen if Ronaldo will still be playing when Mourinho takes charge, but plans appear to be in motion for their future together.