Cristiano Ronaldo's Horizon: What's Next for the Legend in Late 2025 and Beyond?

Rakesh Rajbhat 27 May 2025

Even at 40, Cristiano Ronaldo remains a monumental figure in global football, and the question on everyone's lips is always: what's next? As we navigate late May 2025, the Portuguese icon is still making headlines, scoring goals, and defying expectations. With his current contract at Al Nassr approaching its initial end date, speculation about his future is once again at fever pitch. Let's dive into the latest updates and explore what the coming months and potentially years might hold for CR7.

The Current Chapter: Al Nassr Star Still Shining Bright (May 2025)

As of May 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo is a pivotal player for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Reports indicate he's been in impressive form, continuing to find the back of the net with remarkable consistency, including a notable hat-trick earlier this month. His initial two-and-a-half-year contract with the Riyadh-based club is set to conclude on June 30, 2025.

However, the story with Al Nassr may not be over. Ronaldo himself has expressed his happiness in Saudi Arabia and has spoken positively about the increasing competitiveness of the Saudi Pro League. Crucially, multiple sources suggest that Ronaldo is keen on extending his stay with Al Nassr, potentially for another year, which would see him playing for the club until at least early 2026. Al Nassr officials are reportedly delighted with his contributions both on and off the pitch and are open to negotiating an extension.

The Portuguese Dream: Eyeing the 2026 World Cup

A significant factor driving Ronaldo's desire to continue playing at a high level is his ambition to represent Portugal in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. By then, Ronaldo will be 41. His performances for Portugal post-Euro 2024 and throughout the 2024-2025 season with Al Nassr are being closely watched. Maintaining peak physical condition and consistent playing time at club level are essential for this World Cup aspiration. An extension with Al Nassr would provide him with this platform.

Retirement Talk: Still on the Horizon, But Not Immediate?

At 40, the question of retirement naturally looms. Ronaldo has acknowledged that he thinks about it, but he also maintains that he still feels "strong and useful" and capable of competing at a high level. As long as his body holds up and his passion for the game burns bright – particularly with the 2026 World Cup as a potential swansong – immediate retirement seems unlikely. The decision to extend his Al Nassr contract would further signal his intent to continue his illustrious playing career.

Transfer Rumors: Focus Remains on Saudi Arabia for Now

While in the past there was speculation about potential moves to MLS or a romantic return to Sporting CP, the current credible discussions (as of late May 2025) are predominantly centered around his future with Al Nassr. A successful and happy stint in the Saudi Pro League, coupled with his World Cup ambitions, appears to be his immediate focus. For now, a dramatic move to another league seems less probable unless negotiations with Al Nassr were to unexpectedly falter.

Beyond the Pitch: A Glimpse into Future Endeavors

It's no secret that Cristiano Ronaldo has a vast business empire, with interests in hotels, fashion, and fitness. These ventures will undoubtedly form a significant part of his post-playing career. However, for the immediate future, his energy appears firmly dedicated to his on-field exploits and achieving his remaining footballing goals.

What's the Verdict?

As of late May 2025, the most probable scenario for Cristiano Ronaldo seems to be an extension of his contract with Al Nassr, allowing him to continue playing regularly and maintain his fitness as he targets a spot in Portugal's squad for the 2026 World Cup. His performances remain impressive, and his desire to compete at the highest level is undiminished.

The world watches with anticipation. Cristiano Ronaldo has made a career of defying limits, and his next chapter, even at this stage, promises to be as compelling as ever.

What do you think Cristiano Ronaldo will do next? Share your predictions in the comments below and take our quiz on his incredible career to earn Baakhapaa points!