Ronaldo hints at ‘not many years’ left in football despite stunner vs Ireland

Cristiano Ronaldo acknowledged he’s in the twilight years of his career after his excellent goal for Portugal against Ireland.

The 39-year-old is set to play in his 11th major tournament for his country this summer, with Euro 2024 kicking off this Friday.

Portugal have played friendly matches as part of their preparations for the competition, with Ireland their third opponents on Tuesday.

And Ronaldo showcased just how important he’ll be for them at the Euros by scoring a stunning goal in front of a home crowd in Aveiro.

Following Joao Felix’s opener, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner rifled a shot into the top-left corner with his left foot after bringing down a Ruben Neves ball.

Ronaldo then scored a second just before the hour mark, a close-range left-footed effort, to seal a 3-0 win and breed more confidence in their chances this summer.

The goals take his tally to 130 in 207 appearances for Portugal and come exactly a week before their Euros opener.

However, speaking after the match via Fabrizio Romano, he spoke on his long-term future in the game, admitting: “I don’t have many years left in football… so, I have to enjoy it.”

He added: “I’m in love with football. Every game is special, imagine at the Euros with Portugal, you feel proud… it’s a dream, like when I was 20.”

Ronaldo has previously said he plans to play into his forties, which could therefore mean one of the greatest players of all-time will play at the 2026 World Cup.

However, Euro 2024 is next on his agenda as Portugal first face the Czech Republic on June 18 before subsequent fixtures against Turkey and Georgia in Group F.

They are eyed as one of the favourites to win in Germany alongside the hosts, England, France and Spain.

Ronaldo scored three goals en route to their triumph at Euro 2016, their first ever major honour.

This summer’s tournament could prove to be his last for Portugal amid his age, although his latest performance suggests he certainly still has it in him.

Hundreds of thousands of fans across the world will be following his efforts closely as one of football’s greats eyes more glory.