Cristiano Ronaldo makes major U-turn over return to Europe as he eyes unique milestone

Cristiano Ronaldo admitted he could return to Europe in his quest to reach 1000 career goals.

The 40-year-old previously claimed ‘the door is completely closed’ when talking about a return to Europe.

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The Al Nassr forward has been playing in the Saudi Pro League since 2023 and is contracted at the PIF-owned club until 2027.

Though now his stance has softened to a return to Europe, where he previously played for Sporting, Manchester United (twice), Real Madrid and Juventus.

What did Ronaldo say previously?

Speaking in 2023, Ronaldo said: “I won’t return to European football, the door is completely closed.

“I’m 38 years old, also European football has lost a lot of quality… only valid one is Premier League, they’re way ahead of all the other leagues.”

Ronaldo’s U-turn?

Nearly three years have gone by since those quotes, which were admittedly soon after his fractious exit from United, and now it seems he would be open to going back should the opportunity arise.

Speaking at an awards ceremony in Dubai on Sunday, Ronaldo said: “It’s hard to continue playing, but I am motivated.

“My passion is high and I want to continue. It doesn’t matter where I play, whether in the Middle East or Europe. I always enjoy playing football and I want to keep going.

“You know what my goal is. I want to win trophies and I want to reach that number [1,000 goals] that you all know. I will reach the number for sure, if no injuries.”

How close is Ronaldo to 1000 goals?

The 40-year-old scored twice in Al Nassr’s 3-0 win over Al Akhdoud on Saturday to take him to 956 goals for club and country.

Ronaldo holds the record for most international goals (143) and is Real Madrid’s record goalscorer (450).

He is also the only player to have scored 100+ goals for four clubs – Man United, Madrid, Juventus and Al Nassr.

He has a contract until 2027, which would take him past his 42nd birthday.

What has Ronaldo said about retiring?

Ronaldo has been reluctant to put an exact date on when he plans to hang up his boots, but the 1000 goal target is likely to be in his mind.

In an interview with Piers Morgan, he said he planned to retire ‘soon’.

“I think I will be prepared. It will be tough, of course. I will probably cry,” said Ronaldo.

In his trophy collection is just about every single team and personal accolade a footballer can win, save one.

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He is yet to win the World Cup, but will have one more chance with Portugal next summer in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The striker has also said it will be his last international tournament.