"He wants to play an official match with his boy" - Ex-Chelsea star speculates why Cristiano Ronaldo is not thinking of retiring yet
Former Chelsea star Adrian Mutu has made an interesting claim about Cristiano Ronaldo's retirement plans. He believes the Al-Nassr superstar wants to play a game alongside his son before hanging up his boots.
Cristiano Ronaldo is currently reeling from Portugal's Euro 2024 elimination by France in the quarter-finals. Neither side could break the deadlock as the match went on to penalties, with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner playing the entire 120 minutes.
While he managed to convert his spot-kick, Joao Felix's miss cost Portugal their spot in the semi-finals as France secured a 5-3 victory in the shootout. Ronaldo has been the center of attention at the 2024 European Championships.
The Portugal captain failed to score at this edition and was heavily criticized for his performances. After he missed his penalty in extra time of Portugal's Round of 16 clash against Slovenia, fans started questioning why the 39-year-old hadn't retired already.
Former Chelsea star Adrian Mutu has now made an interesting speculation as to why he refuses to hang up his boots. Speaking to iAM SPORT in Romania, he said (via GOAL):
"That's his real motivation. The fact he wants to play an official match with his boy and that's why he doesn't give up. Well, at Al Nassr, it's possible. If he was at another team, I don't know, Real Madrid, it would be more difficult. But to play a half (together), in a year, I don't think it's impossible."
While he suffered disappointment this year, Cristiano Ronaldo did taste glory in the 2016 Euros, lifting the trophy after beating France in the final.
"We wanted more, we deserved more" - Cristiano Ronaldo reacts after Portugal's Euro 2024 elimination
After Portugal's disappointing defeat to Les Bleus in the quarter-finals, Cristiano Ronaldo took to social media to express gratitude to supporters, claiming that his side deserved more.
He wrote on Instagram:
"We wanted more. We deserved more. For us. For each and every one of you. By by Portugal. We are grateful for all that you have given us and all that we have accomplished so far. On and off the field, I'm sure this legacy will be honored and continue to be built. Together."
The Real Madrid legend has confirmed that this would be his final appearance at the European Championships. Speaking after his side's last-16 win over Slovenia, Ronaldo told Portugal TV's RTP (via The Mirror):
"Without a doubt it's the last Euro [for me], of course it is. But I'm not emotional about that. I'm moved by everything that football entails, by the enthusiasm I have for the game, the enthusiasm I see in the fans, having my family here, people's passion ... it's not about leaving the world of football. What else is there for me to do or win?"