Roberto Carlos urges Cristiano Ronaldo to 'never stop playing'

Roberto Carlos has urged Cristiano Ronaldo to never stop playing football, saying the forward should prolong his career "even if it's just with one leg or crawling." The former Real Madrid full-back praised Ronaldo's influence on clubs, national teams and young players, and said he would call him if he ever tried to retire.

Ronaldo has passed his 41st birthday without giving any thought to retirement and is expected to grace the 2026 World Cup. Off the field, Ronaldo has been in the headlines after going on strike at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, missing their last two games. It has been suggested the lucrative contract that made him the highest earner in world football could be broken in the summer, with the deal including a release clause, and speculation continues over a return to Europe or a move to MLS.

There is no suggestion he will hang up his boots. Carlos also highlighted Ronaldo's target of reaching 1,000 competitive goals, noting that only Pelé had reached that tally so far.

Saudi Arabia

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