Cristiano Ronaldo still ‘obsessed with playing and scoring goals’ as evergreen CR7 remains ‘dedicated to the game’ at 40

He has been that throughout a remarkable career that has spanned more than two decades. There is no sign of Ronaldo slowing down despite passing his 40th birthday. He captained Portugal to Nations League glory in the summer of 2025.

The all-time great has also signed a record-breaking contract at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr that will take him beyond the age of 42. There is seemingly still plenty left for CR7 to achieve.

He is chasing down 1,000 career goals, alongside more major silverware with club and country, and will only call it a day once he no longer feels capable of making a decisive contribution on the field.

Stefano Pioli got to witness that drive at close quarters while working with Ronaldo in the Middle East and has told reporters of that experience after returning to coaching in his native Italy at Fiorentina: “It was an honor to coach him.

“I don't know if he's the strongest player in the history of football, but he's a champion, a legend. I had a very good relationship with him; he's an incredible professional. He's obsessed with playing and scoring goals. His whole day is dedicated to the game, period.”

Ronaldo, who is seeing son Cristiano Jr follow in his illustrious footsteps as the teenager forges his own footballing career, is expected to grace the 2026 World Cup next summer - with a global title the only thing missing from his remarkable medal collection.