'I don't have many years left' - Cristiano Ronaldo speaks out about his future ahead of Euro 2024 but insists he's still 'in love with football'

At 39, the Portuguese star's days as a player are numbered. However, he is still starring for Al-Nassr, having scored a stunning 44 times in 45 matches in the 2023-24 season. He turned back the clock again this week when he struck twice in Portugal's friendly win against Ireland.

Even though he apparently still has the magic touch and he insists his passion for the game is still intense, Ronaldo is aware that he cannot compete at the top level for much longer and has suggested he could retire soon.

"I know that I don't have many years left in football," he said to SporTV. "And as they say in Spain, every year is a gift that passes and I can continue playing. Playing after the age of 35 or 36 is already a gift, now I'm 39 and every year I try to enjoy it.

"The important thing is to be physically and mentally well to be able to help the team. And as you already know, I am united by a lifelong love for the national team. I have been here for 20 years and I just want to continue."

He added: "I am in love with football. Every match is special, imagine in the Euro with Portugal, you feel proud... It is a dream, like when I was 20 years old."

Portugal will compete at Euro 2024 this summer and it could be Ronaldo's last major tournament for the Selecao. He will hope to fire his team to European success for the second time, starting with their opening game against Czech Republic on June 18.