People are encouraging Cristiano Ronaldo to consider a nostalgic return to European football to conclude his illustrious career once he finishes his tenure in Saudi Arabia.
This advice comes from Rene Meulensteen, a former Manchester United coach who worked closely with Ronaldo during his time at Old Trafford. Meulensteen believes that a return to Europe would provide a fitting and romantic ending to the Portuguese forward’s storied career.
Ronaldo made headlines in 2023 with his move to Al Nassr, following a turbulent period at Manchester United. He has since committed to another season with the Saudi club, having set a record with 35 league goals in his debut year. Despite being 39, Ronaldo has not indicated any plans for retirement or hinted at a move to another club, making his future uncertain.
Meulensteen, however, suggests that Ronaldo’s career would be best concluded with a return to Europe. “There would be a certain romance in Cristiano Ronaldo finishing his career back in Europe,” Meulensteen told Gambling Zone. “One of the issues we saw with Portugal is that the focus became overwhelmingly centered on Ronaldo. While he can still contribute significantly, it’s important for him to understand that he’s no longer the same player he was at 28.”
He further emphasized that Ronaldo could still play a meaningful role in European football, noting, “It would be wonderful if he returned to Europe, perhaps with Sporting CP. It will be intriguing to see when he eventually announces his retirement.”
Ronaldo began his professional career with Sporting CP in 2002, making a notable debut in the Champions League against Inter Milan before moving to Manchester United the following year. Meulensteen, who became a first-team coach at United in 2007, witnessed Ronaldo’s rise to stardom, including his first Ballon d’Or win and subsequent transfer to Real Madrid for a then-world record £80 million.
During his time with Real Madrid, Ronaldo established himself as one of the greatest players in history, scoring 451 goals in 438 games and leading the team to four Champions League titles and two La Liga championships. His later stints with Juventus and a return to Manchester United did not match the extraordinary success of his years in Spain.
As Ronaldo approaches his 40th birthday next year, Meulensteen believes that a move back to Sporting CP, which speculation has previously suggested, could offer a perfect conclusion to his career.
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