‘Imagine beating Erling Haaland!’ - Cristiano Ronaldo ‘proud’ of besting Man City ‘animal’ in 2023 goalscoring charts as Al-Nassr star jokes he’ll retire ‘in 10 years’

The soon-to-be 39-year-old made a number of sensational comments earlier on Friday while in a conversation at the Dubai Globe Soccer Awards. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner also mentioned his pride in beating the Manchester City striker for goals scored in 2023 - across club and country - at the ripe old age of 38.

Talking at the Awards ceremony, he said (via Fabrizio Romano): "I was the best goalscorer this season, imagine beating young animals like Haaland… I’m proud. And I’ll be 39 soon! I like when people doubt again about me and then I’m successful. I don’t get affected by the criticism."

Ronaldo also discussed his potential retirement, adding: "The moment I feel I’m done, I'll retire… maybe in 10 years?!"

The Portuguese legend made a move to Saudi Arabia after a poor second spell at Manchester United under Erik Ten Hag. He struggled during his first season with Al-Nassr but came into his own in the 2023/24 season as he sits as the top scorer of the league with 20 goals to his name.

The accomplished player is currently enjoying a break as the Saudi Pro League pauses due to the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar. He will return to training soon and will be in action on January 24 when Shanghai Shenhua host Al-Nassr in a friendly.