Real Madrid ace Cristiano Ronaldo has stated that he would like to stay at the Bernabeu until the end of his career. Ronaldo has had a highly decorated time at the Spanish giants and has no intention of leaving. The 31-year-old was a part of Madrid’s side that just missed out on the La Liga last season but they did manage to claim the Champions league title. The Portuguese star also lifted the Euro 2016 trophy after defeating France in the finals.
Ronaldo, who was yesterday named the UEFA player of the year said, ”I'm at the best club in the world and I want to retire here, at 41. It was an unforgettable year, at club level and internationally, collectively and individually, it was awesome. The aim is to extend my contract and stay.”
Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo's surgeon stunned by his physical ability, calls him a Scholar and a Monster
Madrid president Florentino Perez too ended speculation regarding Ronaldo’s future stating, “Ronaldo wants to retire at Madrid and we want him to retire here.
"Everybody is talking about the [contract] renewal, yet we should all relax, as we're going to enjoy his presence and leadership for many years to come.”
Perez was also delighted with the fact that two Real Madrid players were on the shortlist for the best player in Europe with Gareth Bale narrowly missing out. "I'm very happy because two Real Madrid players have been among the best in Europe," he said. "Collectively it was a great season. [Ronaldo's] award is recognition for the effort and work that he puts in to become, in my opinion, the best player in the world.”
Perez also felt that despite Ronaldo’s stunning numbers, Bale deserves some credit as well. "He [Ronaldo] has won everything, both at an international level and with Real Madrid by winning the Champions League. For [Bale] to be here too is in recognition of a huge season."
The Real Madrid president also wants the team to focus on winning the treble this season. "Our goal is to win everything, as that is the requirement at Real Madrid. Zidane knows that we have to win La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey."
Real Madrid began their La Liga campaign with a comfortable 3-0 win against Real Sociedad. They next play host to Celta Vigo on Saturday.
In the Champion League meanwhile, they have been drawn in a group containing German Bundesliga runners-up Borussia Dortmund as well as Sporting Lisbon and Legia Warsaw.
