Cristiano Ronaldo has told Al Nassr and Portugal his retirement plans, according to reports.
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star's current contract with the Saudi Pro League club runs until June 2025.
Many assumed Ronaldo's career had entered its twilight years following his move to the Middle East.
But now, the 38-year-old could be playing football for club and country until early 2027.
According to Spanish publication Cadena COPE, Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, has told Al Nassr that he wants to sign an extension that will keep him at the club for just over another three years.
That would mean Ronaldo will continue to play until his early fourties.
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It will also allow him to be up for selection for Portugal for the 2026 World Cup, the one trophy that he's yet to win in his glittering career.
Ronaldo has played 201 games for his country, scoring 123 goals in that time and previously indicated he was going to play until 2024 at least, including next summer's European Championships.
Now, though, Ronaldo is reportedly setting himself up to be able to level rival Lionel Messi's achievements. The Argentine lifted the World Cup in Qatar last year for the first time after an enthralling final against France.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo's first appearance at a World Cup in 2006 was the one that brought him closest to the trophy, with Portugal coming in fourth.
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Previously speaking about whether a World Cup win would help settle the Messi v Ronaldo debate, the Portugal captain said: “Even if I win the World Cup that will continue. Some people like me more, some less. It’s like in life, some like blondes, some like brunettes.
“I have always had to show what I can do year after year. I would love to win this tournament. I’m ambitious but if you tell me I won’t win any more tournaments I would still be happy given all I have won.
"In the history books all other records will be there. But obviously a World Cup on the shelf wouldn’t be bad. It would be a dream.”
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