Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks Silence On Manchester United, Retirement, Marriage Plans In New Piers Morgan Interview

04 Nov 2025, 15:23 by Ernest Victor · Naija News

Portuguese football icon, Cristiano Ronaldo has opened up about Manchester United’s ongoing struggles, his approaching retirement, and his relationship with longtime partner Georgina Rodríguez in a new, tell-all interview with Piers Morgan.

The interview, released in three parts on Ronaldo’s official YouTube channel, started today, with the next segments scheduled for Thursday and an “extra time” feature on Friday.

During the interview, the Portuguese star spoke about Manchester United’s decline, expressing both concern and affection for the club where he became a global icon.

“Honestly, seeing the club’s current situation makes me sad. This is one of the most important clubs in world football, and it still holds a special place in my heart for obvious reasons,” Ronaldo said. “Man United needs to work with wise managers to lay solid foundations for the future.”

Reflecting on the club’s past success, he pointed to what has been lost over time. He said, “Think about how academy players like Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs, and David Beckham grew into superstars years ago. But today’s Man United lacks that kind of structural framework, and I hope to see changes in the future.”

Ronaldo, who won multiple trophies during his two spells at Old Trafford, made it clear that his love for the club remains unchanged.

“Of course! I played there for many years, won the Champions League, Ballon d’Or, and a dozen or so trophies. As I’ve repeatedly emphasised, Man United will always be in my heart. But we must be honest about the reality: they’re on the wrong track and need a radical change. In my view, this isn’t just about the coach or the players,” he said.

When asked about the club’s new Portuguese manager (Ruben Amorim), Ronaldo defended him but was blunt about the challenges. “He’s given everything he can! What more can you ask for? A miracle? There’s a saying in Portugal: miracles only happen in Fatima. Even though Man United has excellent players, some lack the right competitive attitude.”

Ronaldo urged the club to rediscover the identity that once made it great. “What is the true Man United spirit? It’s the belief of never giving up, the tradition of continuous winning. Today, this trait is fading, and we must rediscover the foundations on which the club built its success.”

“Retirement? It’s Close.” – Cristiano Ronaldo

The 39-year-old football legend also admitted that the end of his playing career is drawing near.

When asked if he could picture retirement, Ronaldo simply replied, “Yes.” Pressed further, he added, “Soon.”

He admitted that walking away from the game that defined his life will not be easy. “Will it be difficult? Yes, I’ll probably cry. That’s normal. I’m someone who cries easily and never suppresses my emotions. I’m honest and straightforward.”

Ronaldo said he has been preparing for this stage for years. “Since I was around 25 or 26, I’ve been planning my future. So I think I can handle that pressure,” he said.

Still, he confessed that nothing compares to the thrill of scoring a goal. “Nothing compares to the adrenaline rush of scoring. Although we will eventually adapt, as I’ve said, everything has a beginning and an end. So I believe I’ll be ready.”

As his career winds down, the Al-Nassr forward says family will be at the centre of his next chapter. “I have other passions: in the future, I’ll have more time for my family, especially watching my children grow up. Three-year-old Bella now counts the days every time I go away with the team. I want to pay more attention to little Cristiano’s growth, boys at that age do silly things, which is normal; I was the same. And there’s Matéo, who loves football. I long to be a more devoted family member and be more involved in their lives.”

“Marriage After the World Cup” – Cristiano Ronaldo

The interview also touched on Ronaldo’s personal life, including his plans to marry Georgina Rodríguez.

“Not yet,” he said with a laugh when asked if the wedding had already happened. “We plan to do it after the World Cup, with the trophy.”

He explained that the couple has yet to decide where to hold the ceremony. “We haven’t planned that yet because she doesn’t like it, she’s not the type who enjoys big, showy events. She prefers something more private. So I respect her decision, after all, what I care more about is her happiness.”

When Morgan jokingly asked about his bachelor party, Ronaldo laughed. “Of course! Who’s organising it now? João is in charge of all the arrangements; our CEO handles everything. If you receive an invitation, we’ll probably chat for a whole week!”

Morgan teased that it might be held on a private island, to which Ronaldo smiled and replied, “You’re already part of the family.”

The first episode of the interview is now live on Cristiano Ronaldo’s official YouTube channel.